Telehandlers in the last decade, is also known as variable reach rough terrain lift truck, has gained great popularity in the material handling business. With good reason, these particular machines have become the gem of the construction industry. These machines are very strong, practical and versatile. Because several manufacturers and units has exploded during the last 5 years or so, there are now a number 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 forklift. Any of the similarities between a vertical mast type of forklift and a telehandler literally ends on operation and on sight. There are several other significant distinctions between the two machinery discussed below.
A telehandler has an entirely different appearance since it is outfitted with a horizontal boom rather than 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 to lengths of 30 feet and beyond which depends on the particular unit. The boom can 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 famous with the operators.
One more optional boom related function is known as a "Transaction". The telehandler outfitted with this option mounted on the chassis. When the operator starts it, the boom would move back and forward for distances up to 8 feet or more. Amongst the main advantages of this function is that it enables the forks to be cleanly withdrawn from a load and the forks could be inserted underneath cleanly, regardless of the boom angle.
Zoom booms have revolutionized the construction industry. They could perform many tasks that used to take a lot more man-power and time to complete.