What is a Trailer Control Valve?

A trailer control valve is a critical component used in the braking system of commercial vehicles, ensuring effective control of the brakes connected to the trailer. The trailer control valve regulates the air pressure between the trailer and the tractor to enhance the vehicle's braking performance and driving safety.

Working Principle of a Trailer Control Valve
  • Brake Pressure Balance: Balances the brake pressure between the tractor and the trailer.
  • Precise Control: Automatically adjusts the necessary air pressure during braking.
  • Safe Braking: Increases the vehicle's stability during braking by synchronizing the tractor and trailer.
Components of a Trailer Control Valve
  • Main Valve Mechanism: Regulates brake pressure and ensures proper pressure transfer between the tractor and the trailer.
  • Air Inlet and Outlet Ports: Controls airflow and helps the braking system to operate correctly.
  • Balancing Pistons: Improves braking performance by distributing pressure evenly.
  • Connection Parts: Integrates the valve with the braking system and provides a secure connection.
  • Sealing Elements: Provides sealing to ensure the correct direction of air pressure.
Advantages of Trailer Control Valves
  • Safe Braking: Contributes to safe braking by providing balanced brake pressure between the trailer and the tractor.
  • Reduced Wear: Reduces the wear of brake components because it sends the correct pressure to the braking system.
  • Balanced Driving: Ensures driving safety by maintaining vehicle balance during braking.
  • Long-Lasting Use: A quality trailer control valve increases the durability of the braking system and provides longer-lasting use.
Trailer Control Valve Faults and Symptoms
  • Imbalanced Braking: The braking performance decreases when the brake pressure balance between the trailer and the tractor is disrupted.
  • Stiffening of the Brake Pedal: The brake pedal may become stiffer than normal when the valve malfunctions.
  • Vibration During Braking: If excessive vibration or shaking is felt during braking, there may be a problem with the valve.
  • ABS or Brake Warning Light: The valve may be faulty if the ABS or brake warning light illuminates on the instrument panel.
Maintenance of Trailer Control Valves
  • Valve Body Cleaning: It is important to clean the valve body regularly and keep it free from dirt and dust.
  • Control of Air Inlet and Outlet Ports: Check for blockages or leaks in these ports.
  • Inspection of Sealing Elements: Check the sealing elements regularly to ensure there are no air leaks.
  • Control of Balancing Pistons: Make sure the pistons are working properly.
Conclusion

A trailer control valve is an important component that enhances safety in the braking system and provides controlled braking by creating balance between the trailer and the tractor. The VADEN ORIGINAL trailer control valve provides long-lasting and reliable performance in commercial vehicles.