Telehandlers in the last ten years, is also referred to as variable reach rough terrain lift truck, has gained great fame in the material handling business. With good reason, these specific machines have become the gem of the construction industry. These machines are very strong, practical and versatile. Because some models and manufacturers has exploded over the past 5 years or so, there are presently a number of these machines 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 forklift. 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 a completely different look as it is designed with a horizontal boom. A telehandler with a jib attachment from a distance can look more like a crane than a lift truck. The boom can retract and extend or telescope to lengths of 30 feet and beyond which depends on the specific model. The boom is also able to elevate to an angle from horizontal to about 70 degrees. Telehandlers have earned the nickname of "zoom booms" because of 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 whole boom to travel forward and back, especially for distances up to eight feet or so. Among the key advantages of this function is that it allows the forks to be cleanly withdrawn from a load and the forks could be inserted under cleanly, regardless of the boom angle.
The construction industry have been revolutionized by zoom booms. They could perform many tasks which used to take a lot more time and man-power to do.