During the past ten years, telehandlers, also referred to as rough terrain variable reach forklifts, have exceeded the reputation of powered mobile machines. These machinery have become the gem of the construction business and with good reason. These kinds of machinery are practical, versatile and really powerful. As the number of units and manufacturers has exploded over the last 5 years or so, there are currently a few of these equipment 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 forklift. Any of the similarities between a telehandler and a vertical mast type forklift literally ends on sight and on operation. There are some other significant distinctions between the two machinery discussed below.
Compared to a vertical mast, a telehandler has an entirely 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 forklift. The boom is able to telescope or extend and retract as long as 30 feet and beyond depending on the particular unit. The boom is also able to elevate to an angle from horizontal to approximately 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.
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 would move forward and back for distances up to 8 feet or more. Amongst the key advantages of this function is that it enables the forks to be cleanly withdrawn from a load and the forks can be cleanly inserted underneath, regardless of the boom angle.
Zoom booms have changed the construction industry. They are able to perform many types of tasks which used to take a lot more time and man-power to do.