Which brake system is more commonly used in large trucks?

The air brake system is the more commonly used brake system in large trucks due to several important factors that make it particularly suitable for heavy-duty vehicles. One key reason for this preference is the ability of air brakes to provide the extensive stopping power required for large trucks that can weigh significantly more than smaller vehicles.

Air brakes utilize compressed air to operate, which allows for a quicker and more reliable engagement of the brakes compared to other systems. This is crucial in the trucking industry where safety and quick response times are vital, especially when stopping from high speeds or on downhill grades.

Additionally, air brake systems include safety features such as pressure gauges and automatic application if air pressure drops too low, further ensuring the safety of the vehicle. These features do not exist in hydraulic brake systems to the same extent, which is another reason why air brakes are favored in heavy vehicles.

In contrast, hydraulic brake systems are more commonly found in passenger vehicles and lighter trucks because of their simplicity and effectiveness at lower weights. Vacuum brake systems, while useful in certain applications, are not typically used in large trucks due to their limitations in handling heavy loads. Electromagnetic brake systems, while emerging in some applications, are not yet the standard in traditional large truck manufacturing.

Thus, the