Brake accumulators are charged to what pressure?

• A. 750 PSI
• B. 500 PSI
• C. 1000 PSI
• D. 1250 PSI

Answer: (A)

Brake accumulators are precharged hydraulic tanks that store energy so braking can occur immediately and also provide backup if the pump isn’t delivering fluid. The precharge pressure is set by design to ensure there’s enough stored energy for a reliable brake application without overloading the system. For the CRJ-550 brake system, that precharge is 750 psi.

Why this value fits best: 750 psi provides a balance between having sufficient energy to deliver braking force quickly and preserving proper pedal feel and system limits. A lower precharge, like 500 psi, could lead to insufficient energy and longer pedal travel under high braking demand. Higher precharges, such as 1000 or 1250 psi, could push the system toward harsher pedal feel and potential component stress while offering little real advantage in normal operation.