Instead of leaf springs, an air suspension system contains an air spring, also known as rubber or an airline system. The air spring is connected to an air compressor, solenoids, valves, etc. It is worth mentioning here that air suspension uses electronic controls.
Valves play a crucial role in air suspension as they allow the air to enter the different parts of the system. Many automobile experts define an air suspension system as a replacement to the leaf suspension or coil spring system with airbags composed of rubber.
The compressor inflates the air springs to a specific pressure to behave like springs. Note that air suspension differs from a hydropneumatic suspension as it leverages pressurized air instead of liquid.
The primary purpose of an air suspension system is to help the driver achieve a smooth and constant driving experience. In trucks and heavy-duty trailers, it is common to see air suspension in place of leaf suspension systems.
Air suspension is also pretty popular in low-riding trucks. The air springs usually provide adjustable suspension and load support by adding air when riding fully loaded. With air suspension, you can decrease the overall height of your vehicle to sit very low to improve visibility. With these things in mind, here are some pros and cons of an air suspension system.
