Which component prevents backflow and keeps air in the tanks when the compressor stops?

Which component prevents backflow and keeps air in the tanks when the compressor stops?

• A. The relief valve
• B. The one-way check valve
• C. The regulator
• D. The air dryer

Answer: (B)

The key idea is a one-way flow control that prevents backflow in the air brake system. The compressor fills the storage tanks, but when it stops, pressure can drop and air could try to move back toward the compressor or escape. A check valve only allows air to flow from the compressor into the tanks and closes to stop any reverse flow. This keeps the tanks pressurized and ready for braking when the engine isn’t running. The other components don’t serve this backflow-prevention role: a relief valve vents excess pressure, a regulator sets downstream pressure, and an air dryer removes moisture.

The key idea is a one-way flow control that prevents backflow in the air brake system. The compressor fills the storage tanks, but when it stops, pressure can drop and air could try to move back toward the compressor or escape. A check valve only allows air to flow from the compressor into the tanks and closes to stop any reverse flow. This keeps the tanks pressurized and ready for braking when the engine isn’t running. The other components don’t serve this backflow-prevention role: a relief valve vents excess pressure, a regulator sets downstream pressure, and an air dryer removes moisture.