Telehandlers over the past ten years, is also known as variable reach rough terrain forklift, has gained great fame within the material handling industry. With good reason, these specific equipment have become the gem of the construction industry. These equipment are versatile, extremely strong and practical. As some models and manufacturers has exploded during the last 5 years or so, there are currently a few of these machinery 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 vertical mast type of forklift and a telehandler literally ends on sight and on operation. There are some other significant distinctions between the two equipment 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 can resemble more of a crane rather than a lift truck. The boom could telescope or retract and extend as long as 30 feet and beyond that depends on the particular unit. The boom could also elevate to an angle from horizontal to roughly 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 a different optional boom related function. Telehandlers that are equipped with this alternative have a boom that is mounted on the chassis in such a way that when the operator activates it, the entire boom to travel forward and back, specifically for distances up to eight feet or so. One of the main benefits of this function is that it enables the forks to be cleanly withdrawn from a cargo and the forks can be cleanly inserted underneath, regardless of the boom angle.
Zoom booms have changed the construction industry. They can perform many jobs which used to take much more man-power and time to do.