Telehandlers over the last ten years, is also known as variable reach rough terrain lift truck, has gained great popularity in the material handling business. With good reason, these specific machinery have become the gem of the construction industry. These types of machinery are very strong, useful and versatile. Since several models and manufacturers has exploded during the last 5 years or so, there are currently a number of these machines readily available on the market.
The Telehandler is considered a Class 7 Powered Industrial Truck. In name only, 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 some other major distinctions between the two machines discussed below.
As apposed to a vertical mast, a telehandler has a completely different appearance as it is made with a horizontal boom. A telehandler with a jib attachment from a distance can resemble more of a crane than a lift truck. The boom can telescope or extend and retract to lengths of 30 feet and beyond that depends on the specific model. The boom can also elevate to an angle from horizontal to about 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.
"Transaction" is another optional boom related function. Telehandlers that are equipped with this option have a boom that is mounted on the chassis in such a way that when the operator starts it, the whole boom to travel forward and back, specifically for distances up to eight feet or so. Among the main advantages of this function is that it allows the forks to be cleanly withdrawn from a load and the forks could be cleanly inserted under, regardless of the boom angle.
Zoom booms have revolutionized the construction business. They could accomplish numerous types of tasks that used to take much more man-power and time to complete.