Illinois CDL Practice Exam

The primary purpose of an alcohol evaporator in an air brake system is to reduce the risk of ice forming in the air brake valves. In cold weather conditions, moisture in the air lines can freeze, potentially causing blockages that would impair the functioning of the air brakes. The alcohol evaporator introduces a small amount of alcohol into the air brake system, which lowers the freezing point of any moisture present. This helps to prevent ice buildup, ensuring that the brake system operates effectively and safely.

Other options are less relevant to the specific function of the alcohol evaporator. While operating foundation brakes and expelling water and oil from air tanks are important functions of an air brake system, they do not pertain to the role of the alcohol evaporator specifically. Protecting the tank from excessive pressure is also crucial for safety but is not related to the moisture control that the alcohol evaporator addresses.