AIR BRAKE Interactive E-Board Truck & Bus (EB-TB)

AIR BRAKE The Interactive E-Board Truck and Bus Edition is an advanced air brake training resource tailored for instructors. It provides detailed guidance on air brake system operation and diagnostics, making it ideal for advanced students and experienced service technicians. This resource equips learners with the essential knowledge to maintain, diagnose, and repair modern air brake systems effectively.

AIR BRAKE The Interactive E-Board Truck and Bus Edition is designed to complement our AIR BRAKE Interactive Classroom Edition Level 1, an entry-to-intermediate level program.

Key Features:

Advanced Learning Focus:
- Tailored for advanced learners and experienced technicians.
- Provides detailed insights into air brake system operation and troubleshooting.
Interactive and Visual:
- Includes 32 highly detailed animations showcasing various components and systems.
- Offers clear and precise visual aids to enhance learning.
Instructor-Centric Design:
- Comes with a 55-page Instructor’s Reference and Presentation Guide.
- Features student exercise drawings to support practical learning sessions.
Complementary Learning Resource:
- Designed to complement the AIR BRAKE Interactive Classroom Edition Level 1, which caters to entry-to-intermediate level learners.
- Together, these editions create a seamless progression from basic to advanced air brake training.

What’s Included:

Sample Animations

Advanced Learning and Diagnostics

AIR BRAKE Interactive E-Board Advantages

E-Board Truck and Bus can support your existing teaching resources, such as a physical air brake board and/or individual air brake components, or as a stand-alone visual teaching resource. As a stand-alone resource, E-Board Truck and Bus offers the following advantages over conventional air presentations:

Mobility

Traditional physical air brake boards are bulky and challenging to transport.
The E-Board eliminates these constraints by functioning as a portable multimedia resource.
All necessary content is accessible through a notebook computer, making it ideal for on-site or remote teaching.
When paired with a multimedia projector or flat-panel display, it accommodates both small and large groups effectively.

Enhanced Functionality

Conventional boards may offer limited functionality, often failing to show the dynamic operation of circuits and components.
The E- board’s detailed animations provide:
A clear view of airflow through the system.
Full demonstrations of how individual components operate within the system.
Zoom and extreme close-up features enable detailed exploration of specific components, offering an unmatched level of visual clarity.

Individual Component Function

Traditional methods often rely on physically disassembled or cut-away parts for teaching, which can be static and limited in scope.
The E-Board includes cross-sectional cutaway animations of key air brake system components.
These animations ensure technicians understand the design and function of even the most complex components, improving diagnostic and repair skills.

Failure Scenarios

Demonstrating the impact of component or circuit failures is nearly impossible with physical airboards.
The E-Board excels by providing animations that simulate system failures.
These scenarios visually illustrate how failures affect system functionality, preparing technicians to diagnose and address issues efficiently.

Modern and Original Material

Unlike conventional training resources that often reuse outdated material, the E-Board Truck and Bus Edition is built from the ground up.
Features all-new, original content, including:
- Updated system diagrams.
- State-of-the-art technical animations.
- Illustrations that reflect current air brake technology.
The resource is tailored to meet the demands of modern air brake systems, ensuring learners receive the most relevant and accurate training.

Why Choose the E-Board?

Portability: Teach anywhere with minimal equipment.
Visual Precision: Dynamic animations and zoom capabilities provide unparalleled clarity.
Comprehensive Training: Covers system operations, individual components, and failure scenarios.
Modern Relevance: Reflects the latest advancements in air brake technology.

The AIR BRAKE Interactive E-Board Truck and Bus Edition is the ultimate advanced learning tool, revolutionizing how air brake systems are taught and understood. It empowers instructors and technicians to achieve exceptional training outcomes, improving system diagnostics and repair efficiency.

For more information on each module, click on the “v”.

EB-TB Content

This section focuses on the foundational operations of air brake systems and the procedures for testing their functionality. The topics covered ensure a thorough understanding of air supply, brake application, and system safety mechanisms.

Topics Covered:

Spring Brake Release
- Explains how spring brakes are released using air pressure.
- Covers the role of the parking brake control valve and its interaction with the spring brake chambers.
- Discusses troubleshooting for delayed or incomplete spring brake release.
Service Brakes Application
- Describes the process of applying service brakes via the brake pedal.
- Highlights the role of the treadle valve in modulating air pressure to the brake chambers.
- Includes steps for testing the effectiveness of service brake application under various load conditions.
Service Brakes Release
- Details the release mechanism of service brakes when the pedal is disengaged.
- Explores the venting of air from brake chambers and the return of brake components to their resting position.
- Includes diagnostics for issues like slow brake release or air leaks.
Anti-compounding (with Anti-compounding Relay)
- Introduces the anti-compounding feature that prevents simultaneous application of service and parking brakes.
- Explains the operation of the anti-compounding relay valve and its integration into the braking system.
- Discusses scenarios where anti-compounding malfunctions can occur and their solutions.
Reservoir Draining
- Emphasizes the importance of draining reservoirs to remove accumulated moisture and contaminants.
- Provides guidelines for manual and automatic draining systems.
- Covers safety precautions and recommended schedules for reservoir maintenance.

Learning Objectives

Understand the sequence of air brake system operation during initial supply system charging.
Perform functional tests to ensure the reliability of spring brakes, service brakes, and anti-compounding mechanisms.
Diagnose and resolve common issues in the air brake system.
Maintain system components through regular reservoir draining and inspection.

This section addresses common air brake system failures, their causes, and the appropriate diagnostic and troubleshooting procedures. Understanding these failures is essential for ensuring vehicle safety and operational reliability.

Topics Covered:

Primary Reservoir Failure (Inversion Valve System)
- Explains the role of the inversion valve in maintaining brake functionality during a primary reservoir failure.
- Describes the symptoms of reservoir failure, such as reduced air pressure and diminished braking performance.
- Outlines testing and replacement procedures for a failed primary reservoir or inversion valve.
Primary Signal Air Circuit Failure (with Inversion Valve & Standard Relay)
- Details how the inversion valve and standard relay manage signal air circuit failures.
- Covers diagnostic techniques to identify leaks, blockages, or malfunctions in the primary signal air circuit.
- Includes procedures for verifying proper valve operation under failure conditions.
Primary Signal Air Circuit Failure (with Inversion Valve & Double Check Relay)
- Explores the role of the double-check relay in mitigating signal air circuit failures.
- Provides troubleshooting steps for determining whether the inversion valve or double-check relay is at fault.
- Discusses repair and testing methods to restore proper system operation.
Spring Brake Chamber Shuttle O-Ring Failure
- Identifies symptoms of a failed shuttle O-ring, such as air leakage or loss of spring brake function.
- Provides guidelines for inspecting, diagnosing, and replacing damaged O-rings.
- Highlights preventative maintenance practices to extend the life of spring brake components.
Governor Pressure Sensing Line Plugged
- Discusses how a plugged pressure sensing line affects governor operation and system pressure regulation.
- Describes symptoms like erratic compressor cycling or overpressure conditions.
- Includes cleaning, testing, and replacement procedures for clogged sensing lines.
Air Dryer One-way (Outlet) Check Valve Leaking
- Explains how a leaking one-way check valve compromises air dryer performance and system pressure retention.
- Provides steps to inspect, test, and replace faulty check valves.
- Emphasizes the importance of proper sealing and installation.
Air Dryer Purge Valve Leaking (Failed or Frozen Open)
- Identifies the effects of a leaking or frozen purge valve, including continuous air loss and ineffective moisture removal.
- Outlines diagnostic methods to confirm purge valve issues.
- Details repair and replacement procedures for failed or frozen valves.
Compressor Discharge Line Plugged
- Examines the impact of a plugged discharge line on compressor performance and system pressure buildup.
- Lists symptoms such as excessive compressor heat or failure to build air pressure.
- Includes steps to inspect, clean, or replace clogged discharge lines.

Learning Objectives

Recognize the symptoms and implications of common air brake system failures.
Perform diagnostic procedures to pinpoint the root causes of system malfunctions.
Apply effective troubleshooting techniques to resolve failures and restore system functionality.
Implement preventative maintenance practices to reduce the likelihood of future failures.

This section covers various air dryer configurations used in modern air brake supply systems, highlighting their design, functionality, and maintenance requirements. Each configuration ensures efficient moisture removal and system pressure management, tailored to different vehicle applications.

Topics Covered:

Integrated Purge Volume System (3 Reservoir System)
- Description:
  Features an air dryer with an integrated purge volume, eliminating the need for a separate purge tank. The system typically includes three reservoirs: primary, secondary, and supply (wet tank).
- Operation:
  - Moisture-laden air enters the supply reservoir after passing through the air dryer.
  - The integrated purge volume ensures effective purging without additional components.
- Advantages:
  - Compact design.
  - Simplified plumbing.
  - Enhanced reliability with fewer components.
- Maintenance:
  - Regular inspection of the air dryer and purge volume.
  - Scheduled replacement of desiccant cartridges to maintain drying efficiency.
Onboard Governor and Purge Tank (2 Reservoir Systems)
- Description:
  This configuration combines the governor and purge tank into a single unit, reducing the number of external components. It typically operates with two reservoirs: primary and secondary.
- Operation:
  - The onboard governor manages compressor cut-in and cut-out pressures.
  - The purge tank stores a small volume of air for effective purging of the dryer.
- Advantages:
  - Simplified system layout.
  - Reduced system weight.
  - Lower installation costs.
- Maintenance:
  - Ensure the governor operates within specified pressure limits.
  - Regularly check for air leaks around the purge tank and dryer connections.
Self-Purge System (3 Reservoir with Spin-on Air Dryer)
- Description:
  Utilizes a spin-on air dryer that incorporates a self-purge mechanism. This system includes three reservoirs: primary, secondary, and supply (wet tank).
- Operation:
  - Air is dried as it passes through the spin-on air dryer.
  - The self-purge mechanism removes moisture during the system’s purge cycle.
- Advantages:
  - Easy replacement of the spin-on air dryer.
  - Reduced downtime for maintenance.
  - Effective moisture removal with minimal operator intervention.
- Maintenance:
  - Replace the spin-on air dryer at recommended intervals.
  - Inspect for wear or damage in the purge mechanism.

Learning Objectives

Understand the design and operation of different air dryer configurations.
Identify the benefits and limitations of each system for various vehicle applications.
Perform maintenance tasks, including inspections and replacements, to ensure optimal system performance.
Troubleshoot common issues associated with air dryers and purge mechanisms.

This section provides a detailed understanding of key air brake system components, focusing on their design, functionality, and role within the overall system. Mastery of these components is essential for diagnosing and repairing air brake systems effectively.

Topics Covered:

Relay Valve (Standard)
- Design:
  - A pneumatic valve that controls the delivery of air to brake chambers.
- Function:
  - Accelerates the application and release of brakes by reducing the distance air travels.
  - Operates based on input from the control (signal) line.
- Applications:
  - Used in service brake systems for heavy vehicles.
Double Check Relay Valve
- Design:
  - Combines double-check and relay functions in one unit.
- Function:
  - Selects the higher pressure from two input sources and uses it to operate the relay function.
- Applications:
  - Common in systems requiring redundancy, such as dual-circuit brake systems.
Quick Release (QR) Valve – Piston Type
- Design:
  - Utilizes a piston mechanism to release air quickly from brake chambers.
- Function:
  - Reduces air pressure in the brake chamber when the brake pedal is released, ensuring rapid brake release.
- Applications:
  - Found in service brake systems where rapid brake release is critical.
Quick Release (QR) Valve – Diaphragm Type
- Design:
  - Uses a flexible diaphragm instead of a piston for quick air release.
- Function:
  - Similar to the piston type but with a different internal mechanism.
- Applications:
  - Preferred in certain configurations due to its compact design and ease of maintenance.
Quick Release Double Check (QR-DC) Valve
- Design:
  - Combines quick release and double-check functions in one unit.
- Function:
  - Ensures rapid air release while selecting the higher pressure from two sources.
- Applications:
  - Used in systems with multiple air pressure sources for enhanced functionality.
Spring Brake Relay with Integrated Anti-compounding and Inversion Functions
- Design:
  - A specialized relay valve incorporating anti-compounding and inversion mechanisms.
- Function:
  - Prevents simultaneous application of service and parking brakes (anti-compounding).
  - Uses inversion functionality to maintain brake operation during certain failures.
- Applications:
  - Common in spring brake systems for heavy-duty vehicles.
Inversion Valve (Service Brake Application Pressure Sensing Type)
- Design:
  - A valve that inverts its operation based on sensed service brake application pressure.
- Function:
  - Maintains brake functionality in failure scenarios by rerouting air.
- Applications:
  - Integral to systems requiring fail-safe operation during air supply loss.
Treadle Valve
- Design:
  - Foot-operated valve that modulates air pressure to the service brake system.
- Function:
  - Converts the driver’s mechanical input into proportional air pressure for brake application.
- Applications:
  - A core component in all air brake systems, serving as the primary brake control interface.

Learning Objectives

Understand the design and functionality of key air brake system components.
Identify the roles of valves and their integration within the air brake system.
Perform component-level diagnostics to pinpoint malfunctions.
Apply knowledge of component design to ensure proper maintenance and replacement.

This section focuses on a specific technical service error related to air brake systems, detailing its cause, symptoms, and corrective measures. Proper understanding of this error is crucial for maintaining system safety and functionality.

Topics Covered:

Primary Reservoir Failure with Reversed Treadle Valve Supply Lines

Description:
- This error occurs when the supply lines to the treadle valve are incorrectly connected, reversing the intended air supply from the primary and secondary reservoirs.
- The misconnection leads to unintended airflow patterns, compromising brake performance and system safety.
Symptoms:
- System Imbalance: Uneven air pressure between primary and secondary circuits.
- Brake Malfunction: Delayed or insufficient brake application.
- Indicator Warnings: Dash-mounted air pressure gauges showing abnormal readings for the primary and secondary reservoirs.
- Safety Concerns: Increased risk of brake failure under load or emergency braking scenarios.
Cause:
- Incorrect installation or reconnection of treadle valve supply lines during maintenance or system repairs.
Diagnosis:
- Visual Inspection: Verify the routing of supply lines to the treadle valve against system schematics.
- Pressure Testing: Check air pressure at the treadle valve inputs to confirm proper supply line operation.
- Functional Testing: Test brake application to ensure proportional pressure delivery to the brake chambers.
Corrective Measures:
- Reconnection: Disconnect and reconnect the supply lines to the treadle valve according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Testing: Perform a complete system pressure and functionality test to confirm the error has been resolved.
- Documentation: Update maintenance records to ensure proper tracking of the issue and its resolution.
Preventative Actions:
- Label supply lines during disassembly to avoid reconnection errors.
- Train technicians on proper installation procedures and system diagrams.
- Incorporate supply line verification as part of routine maintenance checks.

Learning Objectives

Identify the causes and consequences of reversed treadle valve supply lines during a primary reservoir failure.
Perform accurate diagnostics to detect and resolve supply line misconnections.
Implement preventative measures to avoid similar errors in future maintenance activities.