Telehandlers in the past decade, is also referred to as variable reach rough terrain forklift, has gained great popularity within the material handling industry. With excellent reason, these particular equipment have become the gem of the construction business. These machines are really powerful, practical and versatile. As 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.
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 only 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 some other major differences between the two machinery discussed below.
As apposed to a vertical mast, a telehandler has a completely different appearance because it is made with a horizontal boom. A telehandler with a jib attachment from a distance can look more like a crane rather than a forklift. The boom could telescope or retract and extend to lengths of 30 feet and beyond depending on the specific 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.
One more optional boom related function is referred to as a "Transaction". The telehandler equipped with this option mounted on the chassis. When the operator starts it, the boom will move back and forward for distances up to 8 feet or more. One of the major advantages of this function is that it enables the forks to be cleanly withdrawn from a cargo and the forks could be inserted underneath cleanly, regardless of the boom angle.
The construction business have been changed by zoom booms. They can perform numerous kinds of tasks which used to take a lot more time and man-power to do.