Telehandlers over the past ten years, is also referred to as variable reach rough terrain lift truck, has gained great popularity within the material handling industry. With excellent reason, these specific machines have become the gem of the construction business. These kinds of equipment are really powerful, useful and versatile. As some units and manufacturers has exploded during the last 5 years or so, there are currently a few of these machines readily offered on the market.
In technical terms, a telehandler is considered to be an ITA* Class 7 Powered Industrial Truck. This description means it is a rough terrain forklift, but just in name only. Any of the similarities between a telehandler and a vertical mast type forklift literally ends on operation and on sight. There are several other significant distinctions between the two equipment discussed below.
A telehandler has an entirely different look since it is outfitted with a horizontal boom as opposed to a vertical mast. From a distance, a telehandler with a jib attachment could look more like a mobile crane instead of a forklift. The boom could extend and retract or telescope as long as 30 feet and beyond depending on the specific model. The boom is also able to elevate to an angle from horizontal to around 70 degrees. Telehandlers have earned the nickname of "zoom booms" because of their ability to telescope. This name has become rather popular with the operators.
"Transaction" is a different optional boom related function. Telehandlers that are outfitted with this alternative have a boom that is mounted on the chassis in such a way that when the operator starts it, the whole boom to travel forward and back, particularly for distances up to eight feet or so. One of the key advantages of this function is that it allows the forks to be cleanly withdrawn from a load and the forks could be cleanly inserted under, regardless of the boom angle.
Zoom booms have revolutionized the construction industry. They are able to perform many jobs which used to take a lot more time and man-power to finish.