Telehandlers over the last ten years, is also known as variable reach rough terrain forklift, has gained great fame in the material handling business. With excellent reason, these particular equipment have become the gem of the construction business. These types of machinery are extremely powerful, practical and versatile. Since several manufacturers and units has exploded over the last 5 years or so, there are currently a few of these equipment readily offered on the market.
In technical terms, a telehandler is considered to be an ITA* Class 7 Powered Industrial Truck. This description means it is a rough terrain lift truck, but just in name only. Any of the similarities between a telehandler and a vertical mast type forklift literally ends on sight and on operation. There are several other significant distinctions between the two machinery 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 can resemble more of a crane rather than a lift truck. The boom is able to retract and extend or telescope as long as 30 feet and beyond which depends on the particular unit. The boom is also able to elevate to an angle from horizontal to about 70 degrees. Telehandlers have been called "zoom booms" because of their ability to telescope. This name has become rather famous with the operators.
Another optional boom related function is referred to as a "Transaction". The telehandler outfitted 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 Amongst the key advantages of this function is that it enables the forks to be withdrawn from a load cleanly or with no snags and the forks could be inserted underneath cleanly, regardless of the boom angle.
The construction business have been changed by zoom booms. They could accomplish many tasks which used to take much more time and man-power to finish.