Telehandlers in the past decade, is also known as variable reach rough terrain lift truck, has gained great popularity in the material handling business. With excellent reason, these specific machines have become the gem of the construction industry. These machines are useful, versatile and very strong. Because several manufacturers and units has exploded during the past 5 years or so, there are presently a number of these machinery readily available 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 operation and on sight. There are several other significant distinctions between the two machines discussed below.
As apposed to a vertical mast, a telehandler has an entirely different appearance because it is designed with a horizontal boom. A telehandler with a jib attachment from a distance can resemble more of a crane rather than a forklift. The boom is able to telescope or extend and retract to lengths of 30 feet and beyond depending on the particular unit. The boom is also able to elevate to an angle from horizontal to around 70 degrees. Telehandlers have been called "zoom booms" due to their ability to telescope. This name has become rather popular with the operators.
"Transaction" is another optional boom related function. Telehandlers that are equipped with this alternative have a boom which 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. Amongst the main advantages of this function is that it allows the forks to be withdrawn from a cargo cleanly or with no snags and the forks can be cleanly inserted under, regardless of the boom angle.
Zoom booms have changed the construction business. They can accomplish many jobs that used to take a lot more time and man-power to do.