In the last ten years, telehandlers, also referred to as rough terrain variable reach forklifts, have surpassed the popularity of powered mobile machines. These machines have become the gem of the construction business and with excellent reason. These machines are versatile, extremely strong and practical. Because the number of manufacturers and models has exploded over the past 5 years or so, there are now a number 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 lift truck. Any of the similarities between a vertical mast type of forklift and a telehandler literally ends on operation and on sight. There are some other major distinctions between the two machines discussed below.
A telehandler has an entirely different appearance since it is fitted with a horizontal boom rather than a vertical mast. From a distance, a telehandler with a jib attachment can resemble more of a mobile crane rather than a lift truck. The boom can telescope or retract and extend to lengths of 30 feet and beyond which depends on the particular model. The boom can also elevate to an angle from horizontal to around 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.
"Transaction" is a different optional boom related function. Telehandlers that are equipped with this alternative have a boom which is mounted on the chassis in such a way that when the operator activates it, the whole boom to travel back and forward, particularly for distances up to eight feet or so. Amongst the main benefits of this function is that it enables the forks to be cleanly withdrawn from a cargo and the forks could be inserted under cleanly, regardless of the boom angle.
The construction business have been changed by zoom booms. They are able to accomplish many types of tasks that used to take a lot more man-power and time to do.