Telehandlers over the past ten years, is also known as variable reach rough terrain lift truck, has gained great fame in the material handling industry. With excellent reason, these specific equipment have become the gem of the construction business. These kinds of machines are practical, versatile and very powerful. Since some units and manufacturers has exploded over the last 5 years or so, there are now a few of these machinery readily available 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 only 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 machinery discussed below.
Compared to a vertical mast, a telehandler has an entirely different look since it is made with a horizontal boom. A telehandler with a jib attachment from a distance can look more like a crane rather than a lift truck. The boom can telescope or retract and extend as long as 30 feet and beyond depending on the particular unit. The boom is also able to 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.
"Transaction" is a different optional boom related function. Telehandlers which 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 back and forward, particularly for distances up to eight feet or so. Amongst the key benefits of this function is that it enables the forks to be withdrawn from a load with no snags or cleanly and the forks can be cleanly inserted underneath, regardless of the boom angle.
Zoom booms have changed the construction business. They are able to perform numerous jobs which used to take much more man-power and time to finish.