During the last ten years, telehandlers, also referred to as rough terrain variable reach lift trucks, have surpassed the reputation of motorized mobile equipment. These equipment have become the gem of the construction industry and with good reason. These types of machinery are really powerful, practical and versatile. Since the number of units and manufacturers has exploded over the last 5 years or so, there are now 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 lift truck. Any of the similarities between a vertical mast type of forklift and a telehandler literally ends on operation and on sight. There are some other major differences between the two equipment discussed below.
As apposed to a vertical mast, a telehandler has an entirely different look since it is made with a horizontal boom. A telehandler with a jib attachment from a distance could look more like a crane rather than a lift truck. The boom could telescope or extend and retract as long as 30 feet and beyond depending on the specific model. 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 popular with the operators.
Another optional boom related function is called a "Transaction". The telehandler equipped with this alternative mounted on the chassis. When the operator activates it, the boom will move forward and back for distances up to 8 feet or more. Among the key benefits of this function is that it enables the forks to be cleanly withdrawn from a load and the forks can be cleanly inserted under, regardless of the boom angle.
The construction industry have been revolutionized by zoom booms. They can accomplish numerous tasks which used to take a lot more time and man-power to finish.