What are spring brakes used for in a vehicle?

Spring brakes are specifically designed to provide a reliable method for both emergency stopping and parking in commercial vehicles. These brakes use large springs to apply the brake when there is a loss of air pressure in the braking system, which is a critical safety feature.

In the event of an air system failure, the springs automatically engage the brakes, ensuring that the vehicle can come to a stop safely or remain stationary when parked. This automatic engagement is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring that vehicles do not roll away when parked.

While other systems in a vehicle are designed for acceleration or normal braking, the function of spring brakes specifically ties back to enhancing safety during emergencies and providing secure parking, making them invaluable in commercial truck operations.