1996 Ford Bronco Owner's Manual - Page 32

The following four steps show how the air bag system works: 1. Sensors in the vehicle will detect the degree of severity of a frontal impact. When the sensor system is activated, electric current flows to the inflator and the system ignites the gas generant. The propellant then rapidly burns in the metal container. The rapid burning produces nitrogen gas and small amounts of dust. The nitrogen gas and dust are cooled and filtered during inflation of the air bag. The inflating supplemental air bag splits open the trim cover. The supplemental air bag then rapidly unfolds and inflates in front of the driver. 2. 3. NOTE: STEPS 1-3 TAKE PLACE IN A FRACTION OF A SECOND. 4. After inflation, the gas empties through holes in the air bag. The air bag deflates at once. The surface of the air bags and the vehicle interior may be dusted with a powdery residue. The powder is cornstarch or talcum powder, which is used to lubricate the air bag as it inflates, and sodium compounds such as sodium carbonates (e.g., baking soda), and possibly a very small amount of sodium hydroxide that may be irritating to the skin and eyes, but is not toxic. Right after air bag inflation, you may notice smoke (from the powder and dust) and smell the burnt propellant. This is normal. 30