The diagram below shows a circuit of applied hydraulics comprising the braking, steering and hydraulic systems. Describe the operation of the system when in the a) Steering phase. b) Braking phase. c) Hydraulic phase. d) Idling phase.

Here's a description of the system's operation during each phase:

a) Steering phase.
During the steering phase, the main hydraulic pump supplies pressurized fluid. The MICO Hydraulic Combination Flow Divider directs a portion of this flow to the steering circuit. When the steering wheel is turned, the Steering Valve is actuated, directing hydraulic fluid to one side of the Steering Cylinder. This causes the cylinder to extend or retract, thereby controlling the steering mechanism. Fluid from the opposite side of the cylinder returns through the steering valve to the reservoir.

b) Braking phase.
In the braking phase, the MICO Hydraulic Power Brake Actuator is activated, typically by the brake pedal. This actuator utilizes hydraulic pressure from the system to amplify the braking force. The internal valves within the actuator direct pressurized fluid to the brake calipers or wheel cylinders (represented by the wheels in the diagram), causing the brakes to engage and slow down or stop the vehicle.

c) Hydraulic phase.
The "Hydraulic phase" refers to the operation of the lift and tilt functions. The MICO Hydraulic Combination Flow Divider directs hydraulic fluid to the Lift/Tilt Directional Control section. When the operator actuates the lift control, the corresponding directional valve directs fluid to the Lift Cylinder, causing it to extend or retract. Similarly, when the tilt control is actuated, the tilt directional valve directs fluid to the Tilt Cylinder, enabling tilting movement. Return fluid from these cylinders flows back to the reservoir.

d) Idling phase.
During the idling phase, the engine is running, and the main hydraulic pump is operating, but no specific hydraulic functions (steering, braking, lift, or tilt) are actively engaged. The control valves for steering, braking, and lift/tilt are in their neutral positions. Hydraulic fluid typically circulates through an open-center path or is bypassed back to the reservoir at low pressure, minimizing power consumption and heat generation while keeping the system primed and ready for immediate operation.