Telehandlers over the past decade, is also known as variable reach rough terrain forklift, has gained great popularity in the material handling industry. With excellent reason, these particular machines have become the gem of the construction industry. These equipment are useful, versatile and really powerful. Because the number of units and manufacturers has exploded during the past 5 years or so, there are currently a few of these equipment 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 operation and on sight. There are several other significant distinctions between the two machines discussed below.
Compared 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 look more like 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 specific model. 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 option mounted on the chassis. When the operator activates it, the boom will move forward and back for distances up to 8 feet or more. Among the major benefits of this function is that it allows the forks to be cleanly withdrawn from a load and the forks could be inserted underneath cleanly, regardless of the boom angle.
Zoom booms have changed the construction industry. They are able to perform numerous kinds of jobs which used to take much more man-power and time to finish.