Telehandlers in the last decade, is also referred to as variable reach rough terrain lift truck, has gained great fame within the material handling business. With excellent reason, these specific machinery have become the gem of the construction business. These equipment are versatile, really powerful and practical. Since several manufacturers and models has exploded during the last 5 years or so, there are currently a number 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 sight and on operation. There are some other major differences between the two machinery discussed below.
Compared to a vertical mast, a telehandler has a completely different appearance as it is designed with a horizontal boom. A telehandler with a jib attachment from a distance could look more like a crane rather than a forklift. The boom is able to telescope or extend and retract as long as 30 feet and beyond that depends on the specific unit. The boom can also elevate to an angle from horizontal to approximately 70 degrees. Telehandlers have earned the nickname of "zoom booms" because of their ability to telescope. This name has become rather famous with the operators.
One more optional boom related function is referred to as a "Transaction". The telehandler outfitted with this alternative mounted on the chassis. When the operator starts it, the boom would move forward and back for distances up to 8 feet or more. One of the key advantages of this function is that it allows the forks to be withdrawn from a load with no snags or cleanly and the forks could be inserted underneath cleanly, regardless of the boom angle.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 could accomplish numerous jobs that used to take a lot more man-power and time to finish.