What is the purpose of the air dryer in the air brake system?

The purpose of the air dryer in the air brake system is to remove moisture from the air before it enters the brake lines. Compressed air can contain water vapor, which can lead to various issues in the brake system, such as freezing in cold weather or corrosion of the brake components. By eliminating moisture, the air dryer helps prevent these problems, ensuring more reliable and effective braking performance. This is especially important because any moisture that gets into the braking system can compromise the air-operated components and lead to brake failure or decreased efficiency. Proper maintenance of the air dryer is crucial to the overall health of the air brake system.