At Wayne Truck and Trailer Ltd, we understand that owning a truck requires proper maintenance to ensure everything runs smoothly. One of the essential components of a truck is the air hand valve, also known as an air control valve or relay valve. This valve is responsible for controlling the airflow from the air tanks to the brake chambers or other pneumatic devices in your truck. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about air hand valves – including how they work, the types available, and the importance of regular maintenance.
Functionality of Air Hand Valves
The primary function of an air hand valve is to control the airflow in a truck’s pneumatic system. When you push the brake pedal, it sends a signal to the air compressor to generate air pressure in the air tanks. This air pressure is then distributed to different components in the truck, such as the brake chambers. However, it’s the air hand valve that ensures the correct amount of air pressure is applied to the chamber, allowing the truck to stop safely.
Types of Air Hand Valves
There are two primary types of air hand valves used in trucks: direct acting and spring brake. Direct acting air hand valves work by directing the air pressure from the air tanks directly to the brake chambers. These valves are typically found in older trucks, and they’re known to be prone to leakages.
On the other hand, a spring brake system is incorporated into the air valve, which pushes against the diaphragm when the brake pedal is not depressed, thereby holding the pressure in the brake chambers. These valves are found in newer trucks and are more efficient, reliable, and easier to maintain.
The Importance of Regular Maintenance
As mentioned earlier, the air hand valve is an essential component of your truck’s pneumatic system. Therefore, regular maintenance is crucial to ensure everything runs smoothly. Some of the common issues associated with air hand valves include leakages, stuck valves, and poor or weak air flow, which can be detrimental to your truck's overall performance.
Cleaning your air hand valve regularly is crucial in maintaining its efficiency. Dirt and dust can accumulate in the valve, causing clogging and, in turn, reducing airflow. Ensure you inspect and clean the valve every time you carry out a general truck maintenance routine. Also, it’s important to replace the valve if you detect any signs of wear and tear such as rust or cracks.
Conclusion
Air hand valves are an essential component of your truck’s pneumatic system. Without them, your ability to control your truck effectively and safely diminishes. Regularly cleaning and maintaining your air hand valve can help to ensure it remains efficient and reliable. If you require assistance with your air hand valve or any other truck component, visit Wayne Truck and Trailer Ltd today. We are your trusted truck experts dedicated to providing you with superior customer service and top-quality products.