What is the role of the air tanks in a heavy-duty vehicle?

The role of the air tanks in a heavy-duty vehicle is to store compressed air for brake functions. In air brake systems, the air tanks are critical components that store the air necessary to operate the brakes along with other pneumatic systems within the vehicle. When the driver presses the brake pedal, the air stored in these tanks is released to activate the brake mechanisms, allowing for safe and effective stopping. Maintaining proper air pressure in the tanks is crucial for the vehicle's performance and safety. If the air tanks are not functioning correctly or are not filled with adequate compressed air, the braking system may fail, leading to serious safety hazards on the road.

In contrast, while air tanks may seem to have an aesthetic presence in the vehicle, their main function is purely mechanical rather than aesthetic. They do not serve a purpose in decreasing overall vehicle weight and certainly do not contribute to increasing engine temperature; those roles are fulfilled by other vehicle components.