Arizona Air Brakes CDL Practice Test

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Study for the Arizona Air Brakes CDL Test. Master the air brake system concepts with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each complemented by hints and explanations. Get exam ready!

Practice this question and more.

What type of brake system only uses compressed air to apply the brakes?

Hydraulic brake system
Pneumatic brake system
Mechanical brake system
Vacuum brake system

The correct answer is: Pneumatic brake system

The correct answer is the pneumatic brake system, which solely utilizes compressed air to operate the brakes. This system is essential for larger vehicles, such as trucks and buses, where the use of air pressure allows for more effective and powerful braking capabilities compared to other methods. Pneumatic brakes function by using compressed air to engage the brake pads against the wheels when the driver applies the brake pedal. This system is advantageous as it ensures consistent braking performance, especially when handling heavy loads or during long descents. Additionally, pneumatic systems can incorporate features like automatic slack adjusters and anti-lock braking systems, rendering them both reliable and efficient. In contrast, a hydraulic brake system relies on brake fluid and does not use compressed air at all. Mechanical brakes operate using links and levers without any reliance on air pressure or fluid systems, and vacuum brake systems, while they use air, depend on reducing air pressure rather than relying solely on compressed air for operation. Hence, the pneumatic brake system stands out for its exclusive use of compressed air in applying brakes.