Telehandlers over the last ten years, is also referred to as variable reach rough terrain forklift, has gained great popularity in the material handling industry. With excellent reason, these particular machinery have become the gem of the construction business. These equipment are useful, versatile and extremely strong. Since the number of manufacturers and models has exploded over the past 5 years or so, there are currently a few of these machines readily offered on the market.
The Telehandler is considered a Class 7 Powered Industrial Truck. Just in name, this description means it is a rough terrain lift truck. Any of the similarities between a telehandler and a vertical mast type forklift literally ends on operation and on sight. There are some other significant distinctions between the two machines discussed below.
A telehandler has an entirely different look because it is fitted with a horizontal boom as opposed to a vertical mast. From a distance, a telehandler with a jib attachment can look more like a mobile crane instead of a lift truck. The boom is able to extend and retract or telescope as long as 30 feet and beyond depending on the specific unit. The boom could also elevate to an angle from horizontal to roughly 70 degrees. Telehandlers have been called "zoom booms" because of their ability to telescope. This name has become rather famous with the operators.
Another optional boom related function is called a "Transaction". The telehandler equipped with this alternative mounted on the chassis. When the operator starts it, the boom will move back and forward for distances up to 8 feet or more. Amongst the key advantages of this function is that it allows the forks to be withdrawn from a load with no snags or cleanly and the forks could be inserted underneath cleanly, regardless of the boom angle.
Zoom booms have revolutionized the construction industry. They can perform numerous tasks that used to take much more time and man-power to finish.