Telehandlers in the last ten years, is also known as variable reach rough terrain forklift, has gained great popularity within the material handling business. With good reason, these specific machinery have become the gem of the construction business. These kinds of equipment are versatile, really strong and useful. Since the number of manufacturers and models has exploded over the last 5 years or so, there are presently a few of these equipment readily offered 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 sight and on operation. There are several other major distinctions between the two machines discussed below.
A telehandler has an entirely different look because 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 is able to telescope or extend and retract to lengths of 30 feet and beyond which depends on the specific model. The boom could also elevate to an angle from horizontal to around 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.
Another optional boom related function is known as a "Transaction". The telehandler equipped with this option mounted on the chassis. When the operator activates it, the boom would move back and forward for distances up to 8 feet or more. Amongst the major advantages of this function is that it allows the forks to be cleanly withdrawn from a load and the forks can be cleanly inserted underneath, regardless of the boom angle.
The construction industry have been revolutionized by zoom booms. They could perform numerous jobs which used to take a lot more time and man-power to finish.