What type of brake chamber is commonly used in fire apparatus?

The spring brake chamber, often referred to as a spring brake, is widely used in fire apparatus due to its ability to enhance safety and reliability in emergency situations. This type of brake is designed to engage automatically in the event of air loss, meaning that if the air pressure drops below a certain threshold, the springs inside the chamber will activate and apply the brakes. This feature is crucial for fire apparatus, as it ensures that the vehicle can stop securely, even if there is a failure in the air brake system.

Furthermore, spring brakes typically serve a dual purpose; they can function as both the parking brake and the emergency brake. This dual functionality is particularly beneficial for fire apparatus, which may need to remain stationary on a slope or during certain firefighting operations.

In addition, fire trucks are often loaded with heavy equipment, which places significant demands on the braking system. The robust nature of spring brake chambers makes them well-suited to handle the increased stress associated with emergency response, providing the necessary stopping power while mitigating the risks associated with brake failure.