Park brake valves are designed for long, reliable service life while holding the aircraft stationary in the closed (locked) position. Valve models range from fairly simple devices to more complex models with additional features.
Park brake valves are located in the brake lines between the master cylinders and the brakes. They are used to hold pressure in the brakes of an aircraft to prevent the aircraft from moving when grounded. Park brake valves have two inlet ports or fittings connected to the upstream master cylinders and two outlet ports or fittings connected to the downstream brakes. They are actuated with a control arm that is mechanically attached by a rod or a cable to the cockpit.
Additional features are often built into or added onto the park brake valve to meet customer requirements. A micro switch or proximity sensor is a common addition that provides feedback to let the pilot know the position of the control arm. Thermal relief valves are also commonly added to allow for pressure relief of the brake hydraulics. Spring loaded accumulators maintain pressure on the brakes and are used when the aircraft may be parked for long periods of time such as overnight. Park brake valves may also have pressure switches installed that electrically close when the brake pressure reaches a certain value and can be set to illuminate an indicator in the cockpit.
APPLICATIONS
General aviation, light jets, turboprop passenger and cargo aircraft
FEATURES AND ATTRIBUTES
OPTIONAL FEATURES
