Telehandlers in the last ten years, is also referred to as variable reach rough terrain lift truck, has gained great fame in the material handling business. With excellent reason, these specific machinery have become the gem of the construction industry. These equipment are versatile, very strong and useful. Because some manufacturers and models has exploded during the last 5 years or so, there are presently a number of these equipment readily available on the market.
The Telehandler is considered a Class 7 Powered Industrial Truck. In name only, this description means it is a rough terrain forklift. Any of the similarities between a telehandler and a vertical mast type forklift literally ends on sight and on operation. There are some other significant differences between the two machinery discussed below.
Compared to a vertical mast, a telehandler has a completely different appearance since it is designed with a horizontal boom. A telehandler with a jib attachment from a distance could resemble more of a crane rather than a forklift. The boom could retract and extend or telescope to lengths of 30 feet and beyond depending on the specific unit. The boom could also elevate to an angle from horizontal to approximately 70 degrees. Telehandlers have earned the nickname of "zoom booms" due to their ability to telescope. This name has become rather popular with the operators.
"Transaction" is another optional boom related function. Telehandlers that are equipped with this option have a boom which is mounted on the chassis in such a way that when the operator activates it, the whole boom to travel back and forward, specifically for distances up to eight feet or so. Among the key benefits of this function is that it allows the forks to be cleanly withdrawn from a cargo and the forks can be inserted under cleanly, regardless of the boom angle.
Zoom booms have changed the construction business. They can perform numerous types of jobs which used to take much more time and man-power to finish.