Telehandlers in the past decade, is also known as variable reach rough terrain lift truck, has gained great popularity within the material handling business. With good reason, these particular machines have become the gem of the construction industry. These kinds of equipment are versatile, really strong and useful. As several manufacturers and units has exploded over the past 5 years or so, there are presently a few of these machines readily available 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 several other significant distinctions between the two machines discussed below.
Compared to a vertical mast, a telehandler has a completely different appearance since it is made with a horizontal boom. A telehandler with a jib attachment from a distance could resemble more of a crane than a lift truck. The boom could telescope or retract and extend to lengths of 30 feet and beyond which depends on the particular unit. The boom is also able to elevate to an angle from horizontal to about 70 degrees. Telehandlers have been referred to as "zoom booms" because of their ability to telescope. This name has become rather famous with the operators.
"Transaction" is another optional boom related function. Telehandlers that are outfitted with this option have a boom that is mounted on the chassis in such a way that when the operator starts it, the entire boom to travel forward and back, particularly for distances up to eight feet or so. Among the key benefits of this function is that it allows the forks to be withdrawn from a load cleanly or with no snags and the forks could be inserted underneath cleanly, regardless of the boom angle.
Zoom booms have changed the construction industry. They can accomplish many jobs which used to take much more time and man-power to finish.