During the past ten years, telehandlers, also known as rough terrain variable reach lift trucks, have exceeded the reputation of powered mobile equipment. These equipment have become the gem of the construction industry and with good reason. These kinds of equipment are very powerful, practical and versatile. Because some manufacturers and units has exploded during the past 5 years or so, there are presently a number of these machines 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 several other major differences between the two machinery discussed below.
As apposed to a vertical mast, a telehandler has an entirely different look because 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 retract and extend 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 around 70 degrees. Telehandlers have been referred to as "zoom booms" because of their ability to telescope. This name has become rather famous with the operators.
One more optional boom related function is known as a "Transaction". The telehandler equipped with this alternative mounted on the chassis. When the operator starts it, the boom will move back and forward for distances up to 8 feet or more. Amongst the key advantages of this function is that it allows the forks to be withdrawn from a load cleanly or with no snags and the forks can be inserted under cleanly, regardless of the boom angle.
Zoom booms have revolutionized the construction business. They could perform numerous kinds of tasks which used to take a lot more time and man-power to complete.