Technical Support
Air Suspension Systems and Compressors
Air Suspension Systems and Compressors
Air suspension systems vary in installation and configuration between manufacturers, but all rely on the same basic concept; metal springs are removed and replaced with air bags which can be inflated (lifted) or deflated to lower your vehicle.airbag compressor A compressor supplies air to the bag(s) and a switch in the cab controls when they are filled or deflated.
The main components that make up the system are an air tank, an onboard air compressor, valves and solenoids, hoses, and lines.airbag compressor The air tank stores a high volume of compressed air. The compressor is an electric pump that creates air pressure and delivers it to the air bag(s) through various lines which can be run to any location on your truck. Most kits use rubber or polyurethane lines which are durable and water resistant. Steel lines are also available and offer a better look while providing higher flow rates than the traditional line options.
During normal operation, the air bag control unit monitors several sensors for signals that a frontal crash is occurring.airbag compressor When the sensor senses the force of impact, it sends a signal to activate the inflation system. This sends an electrical signal to start a chemical reaction that inflates the nylon fabric bag with harmless nitrogen gas. The nitrogen is released through the bag’s small vent holes in a very controlled manner and absorbs some of the energy from the crash.
After the air bags have inflated, they quickly deflate again.airbag compressor You have likely seen the process during a vehicle safety demonstration. The “smoke” released during a demonstration is actually nontoxic cornstarch or talcum powder that is used to lubricate the venting system and prevent it from restricting movement.
When it comes to on board air compressors, the key specifications are the CFM and tank size.airbag compressor The CFM (Cubic Ft per Minute) rating determines how much the compressor can fill your air tanks in a given amount of time. The tank size determines how often you will need to refill your air bags.
To determine the proper tank size, you need to know how many psi of air the airbags will need to inflate to your desired height.airbag compressor This information is typically provided in the kit specifications and can also be found on the sizing page for each air ride kit.
Rough Country’s Onboard Air Compressor Kit features a moisture and dust-resistant heavy duty compressor with a recommended max working pressure of 120 PSI.airbag compressor It includes a gauge and all the necessary wiring and air line to tie into your existing Rough Country air spring kit. The kit is backed by a limited lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects. Installation is simple and the kit requires no cutting or drilling.
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