1.21 Knowing the parts of a vehicle: Air suspension system
The air suspension system is a crucial part of any vehicle, and is especially common on trucks, buses and heavy-duty vehicles. This system is responsible for ensuring smooth and comfortable driving, reducing vibrations and impacts caused by road irregularities. In this section, we will explore in detail the air suspension system, its components, operation and maintenance.
1. What is the air suspension system?
The air suspension system is an alternative to the conventional suspension system that uses steel springs. Instead of springs, the air suspension system uses inflated air bags to absorb impacts and support the weight of the vehicle. Air bags are automatically inflated or deflated by the system, according to road conditions and vehicle load, always ensuring the best performance.
2. Air suspension system components
The air suspension system is made up of several components, including the air bags, solenoid valves, air compressors, air reservoirs, height sensors, and the electronic control unit (ECU).
The air bags are the heart of the system. They are made of heavy-duty rubber and are inflated with compressed air to support the weight of the vehicle. The air bags are mounted between the chassis and the axles of the vehicle and replace the steel springs of the conventional suspension system.
The solenoid valves control the flow of air into and out of the air pockets. When the system detects that the vehicle is too low, solenoid valves allow air to enter the air pockets to raise the vehicle. When the vehicle is too high, the solenoid valves allow air to exit the air pockets to lower the vehicle.
The air compressor is responsible for supplying the compressed air that is used to inflate the air bags. It is powered by the vehicle's engine and automatically activated by the system when more air is needed.
The air reservoir stores the compressed air that is used to inflate the air bags. It is filled by the air compressor and provides a reserve of air for the system to use when needed.
The height sensors monitor the height of the vehicle and send this information to the ECU. If the vehicle is too low or too high, the ECU triggers the air compressor and solenoid valves to adjust the vehicle's height.
The electronic control unit (ECU) is the brain of the system. It receives information from the height sensors and controls the air compressor and solenoid valves to adjust the height of the vehicle.
3. Air suspension system maintenance
Maintenance of the air suspension system is essential to guarantee its proper functioning and prolong its useful life. Regular maintenance should include checking the air pressure in the air bags, inspecting the solenoid valves and air compressor for leaks or damage, checking the air receiver to ensure it is full, and checking the air pressure sensors. height and ECU to ensure they are working properly.
In summary, the air suspension system is an important part of the vehicle that ensures a smooth and comfortable ride. Understanding how it works and how to maintain it is essential for anyone wanting to delve into the world of vehicle maintenance.
