Abstract: A serviceable filtering oil removal cartridge for use in a compressed air assembly of a vehicle air brake system includes a housing having a first end and a second end. A filtering element is disposed within the housing for agglomerating and removing oil from compressed air entering the oil removal cartridge. A load plate is disposed within the housing for supporting the filtering element. The load plate includes a connecting portion dimensioned to allow the oil removal cartridge to be removed and installed as a single unit. The connecting portion is preferably a threaded annulus. A thermal vent can be included, wherein pressure is released from the oil removal cartridge upon reaching a threshold temperature.

Abstract: A serviceable design for a pressure vessel or reservoir includes a removable retainer accessible from a location external to the reservoir. Many existing, commercially available components can be used with only slight modification while providing ease of access to repair/replace seal members if so desired.

Abstract: An isolation mechanism is provided for a trailer air dryer to limit transfer of forces from a trailer frame to the dryer. In a first embodiment, elastomeric bushings are interposed between the trailer frame and the dryer to reduce the forces transferred to end covers of the trailer dryer. In another embodiment, the mounting assembly is modified to include a connection directly to a central body of the air dryer. In yet another embodiment, U-shaped fasteners couple the body of the air dryer to the frame.

Abstract: A purge reservoir for an air dryer in an air brake system of a vehicle is disclosed. The purge reservoir or volume (24) is separate from the associated primary and secondary reservoirs of the air brake system. The purge volume (24) is secured directly to the air dryer housing (12) by fasteners (22). Purge volume (24) is operatively connected to air dryer housing (12) by opening (30) through which compressed air flows into purge reservoir (24) during the air dryer charge cycle, and through which purge air is supplied to the air dryer during the air dryer purge cycle. No air hoses are required for connecting the purge reservoir with the air dryer. Additionally, a desiccant cartridge (14) is fully accessible and may be replaced without otherwise disturbing the air dryer-purge reservoir module. Purge reservoir (24) also includes fastening capability (40) for securing the air dryer to the vehicle, thereby eliminating the need for a separate air dryer mounting bracket.

Abstract: A trailer air dryer is provided to minimize contamination, leakage or freeze-up of the valves used in a pneumatic braking and suspension system caused by moisture or foreign particles in the system. A bypass assembly is provided to ensure normal brake operation should the filters or drying material/desiccant become plugged. In one embodiment, an audible signal or warning is provided to the operator indicating need for servicing the trailer air dryer.

Abstract: A control module for a twin air dryer system monitors which dryer was used for drying in the previous cycle. The most recently used dryer is then the first to be regenerated. This ensures that the most recently regenerated dryer is used to dry incoming air. This occurs regardless of the drying mode, i.e., whether it is high air use or normal brake system use. The system minimizes the risk of dryer saturation and loss of function. Moreover, maintenance requirements are simplified, since the air dryer cartridges are more evenly used.