What is a primary benefit of having air brakes over hydraulic brakes?

The primary benefit of having air brakes over hydraulic brakes is that they provide better stopping power for larger vehicles. This advantage stems from the way air brake systems function, particularly in heavy-duty applications such as trucks and buses.

Air brakes utilize compressed air to create the necessary force to engage the brakes, which allows them to handle the substantial demands of stopping large vehicles that are often significantly heavier than those typically reliant on hydraulic brakes. With hydraulic systems, the risk of brake fade increases under heavy loads or extended use, which can lead to a decrease in braking efficiency. In contrast, air brakes maintain consistent stopping power, even when operating under demanding conditions, making them highly effective for larger vehicles.

Furthermore, air brakes have built-in safety features, such as the ability to release pressure in case of a failure, which adds to their reliability and effectiveness in ensuring safety during operation. This makes air brakes the preferred choice for heavy-duty vehicles where stopping power and safety are of the utmost concern.