Telehandlers over the last ten years, is also known as variable reach rough terrain forklift, has gained great popularity in the material handling industry. With excellent reason, these particular machines have become the gem of the construction business. These types of equipment are practical, versatile and very powerful. As several manufacturers and units has exploded during the past 5 years or so, there are now a number of these machines 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 vertical mast type of forklift and a telehandler literally ends on sight and on operation. There are several other significant distinctions between the two machines discussed below.
A telehandler has a completely different look since it is fitted with a horizontal boom as opposed to a vertical mast. From a distance, a telehandler with a jib attachment can resemble more of a mobile crane instead of a forklift. The boom could telescope or extend and retract as long as 30 feet and beyond depending on the specific unit. The boom is also able to elevate to an angle from horizontal to around 70 degrees. Telehandlers have been referred to as "zoom booms" because of their ability to telescope. This name has become rather famous with the operators.
"Transaction" is another optional boom related function. Telehandlers that are equipped with this option have a boom which is mounted on the chassis in such a way that when the operator activates it, the whole boom to travel back and forward, specifically for distances up to eight feet or so. Amongst the main advantages of this function is that it enables the forks to be withdrawn from a cargo with no snags or cleanly and the forks could be cleanly inserted underneath, regardless of the boom angle.
The construction business have been changed by zoom booms. They can accomplish many jobs that used to take much more man-power and time to do.