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Large commercial vehicles like semitrailers, buses, heavy equipment, some personal vehicles like large RVs, and tow vehicles have supplemental braking systems (diesel exhaust brakes and/or compression brakes). Supplemental braking systems are designed to safely slow the vehicle rather than completely relying on the brakes that are positioned at the wheels. Diesel exhaust brakes are a very common supplemental braking option.
Exhaust brakes are not a necessity on smaller diesel trucks and passenger vehicles because of their lower weight. Even when loaded, they are not nearly as taxing on traditional brakes. While not a requirement, many smaller vehicle owners will opt to install them via aftermarket providers.
Compression brakes (commonly referred to as jake brakes), which are identifiable by their signature loud “blat blat blat” sound, are an entirely different system than will be covered in a separate article.
Diesel exhaust brakes operate by physically restricting exhaust flow, creating additional backpressure, thereby slowing engine speed. The physical restriction comes in the form of a butterfly valve installed in-line in the exhaust system actuated by either a servo motor, air pressure or other means as needed to assist in slowing the vehicle.
If you’ve ever wondered, “what is a diesel exhaust brake?” you’re not alone. A diesel exhaust brake is an intentionally placed controllable physical restriction within the vehicle exhaust system that creates additional exhaust system backpressure, resulting in a reduction in vehicle speed.
A diesel exhaust brake is a system on large, diesel-powered vehicle that allows for slowing and stopping without using the vehicle’s wheel mounted brake system. Diesel exhaust brakes — not to be confused with compression brakes — can assist the wheel mounted braking system, therefore extending the useful life of components like brake pads, rotors and brake drums.
Additionally, the combined use of exhaust brakes and wheel mounted brakes can reduce stopping distance. Specifically, the stopping distance of heavy, fully loaded vehicles is reduced when both braking systems are used in tandem.
Diesel powered vehicles do not benefit from the same level of engine braking as gasoline powered vehicles enjoy. In a typical car or light truck, letting off the accelerator results in vehicle speed reduction beyond simple friction associated with moving an object through air and across a roadway. This slowing is caused by throttle valve closure, creating a vacuum for the engine to operate against.
Diesel engines do not use a throttle valve, as their operation is based on the regulation of fuel, rather than the regulation of air, as is the case with gasoline engines. This difference in engine design partially explains why diesel powered vehicles will “coast” for greater distances when the driver releases the accelerator.
Without a supplemental braking option, the combination of heavy loads and lack of engine braking easily overwhelms wheel brakes. Diesel exhaust brakes often are the preferred choice as they provide stopping benefits, but without the very loud noise associated with compression brakes. An exception would be heavy duty vehicles under significant load. In cases like this, compression brakes would be preferred as they provide the greatest braking force.
So, how does an exhaust brake work? Essentially, it works by trapping engine pressure in the exhaust system, which in turn forces the engine to rotate slower (backpressure).
Normally, pistons travel upward in their cylinder bore to force spent exhaust gasses out of the engine via the exhaust valve. When the exhaust brake is applied and the inline butterfly valve is partially closed, significant additional force is required to push the spent exhaust from the engine. This additional force slows the engine’s rotational speed. As the engine slows, the vehicle decelerates.
In some exhaust brake systems, the vehicle computer controls their operation. In others, the driver can manually actuate the exhaust brake. With either system, the mechanism which closes the butterfly valve may be powered by hydraulic pressure, air pressure or rely on an electronically operated servo motor.
Many diesel powered vehicles have supplemental braking systems, such as exhaust brakes. As a diesel technician, familiarity with their use and operation are important skills to have for your career. The braking systems require occasional maintenance and some users report decreased effectiveness over time. Properly inspecting, diagnosing, repairing and maintaining exhaust brake systems are important skills to have and can take you far in this industry.
UTI’s 45-week Diesel Technology program can provide you with the fundamentals needed to service powerful trucks and engines.1 Your training doesn’t have to stop there, though — UTI also offers a variety of diesel specialized training programs, which were created in collaboration with leading brands.
One of these programs is the agricultural equipment technician training program, which was created with Fendt, part of the AGCO Corporation. In this 8-week program, students who qualify learn the ins and outs of working on agricultural equipment. They also earn valuable agricultural technician qualifications that can give them a competitive edge as they start their careers.15
To learn more, request information today. We’ll connect you with an Admissions Representative who can help you get started!
While times might seem uncertain, the demand for diesel techs remains. Here's the inspiring story of UTI diesel grad Nestor Martinez.
After 35+ years of being in the Diesel Industry, Greg Osbourne is now an instructor at the UTI Bloomfield campus and is excited to share his experiences and show his knowledge in the Diesel Technician program.
1) UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.
2) For program outcome information and other disclosures, visit www.uti.edu/disclosures.
15) Manufacturer-paid advanced training programs are conducted by UTI on behalf of manufacturers who determine acceptance criteria and conditions. These programs are not part of UTI’s accreditation. Programs available at select locations.
Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.
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