Telehandlers over the last decade, is also known as variable reach rough terrain lift truck, has gained great fame within the material handling business. With excellent reason, these specific machinery have become the gem of the construction business. These machines are versatile, extremely strong and practical. As the number of manufacturers and models has exploded over the last 5 years or so, there are now a few of these equipment 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 vertical mast type of forklift and a telehandler literally ends on sight and on operation. There are some other major distinctions between the two machinery discussed below.
Compared to a vertical mast, a telehandler has an entirely different appearance because it is made with a horizontal boom. A telehandler with a jib attachment from a distance can resemble more of a crane rather than a lift truck. The boom can retract and extend or telescope 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 roughly 70 degrees. Telehandlers have been referred to as "zoom booms" because of their ability to telescope. This name has become rather popular with the operators.
"Transaction" is a different optional boom related function. Telehandlers that are outfitted with this option have a boom that is mounted on the chassis in such a way that when the operator activates it, the whole boom to travel forward and back, particularly for distances up to eight feet or so. Amongst the major benefits of this function is that it allows the forks to be cleanly withdrawn from a cargo and the forks can be inserted underneath cleanly, regardless of the boom angle.
The construction business have been changed by zoom booms. They are able to accomplish numerous types of tasks that used to take a lot more man-power and time to finish.