Over the past decade, telehandlers, also known as rough terrain variable reach forklifts, have surpassed the popularity of powered mobile machines. These machinery have become the gem of the construction industry and with good reason. These machinery are very strong, practical and versatile. As several manufacturers and units has exploded during the last 5 years or so, there are currently a few of these equipment readily offered on the market.
The Telehandler is considered a Class 7 Powered Industrial Truck. In name only, this description means it is a rough terrain lift truck. Any of the similarities between a telehandler and a vertical mast type forklift literally ends on operation and on sight. There are several other major distinctions between the two equipment discussed below.
A telehandler has a completely different appearance since it is fitted with a horizontal boom rather than a vertical mast. From a distance, a telehandler with a jib attachment could look more like a mobile crane rather than a forklift. The boom could telescope or extend and retract as long as 30 feet and beyond depending on the particular unit. The boom is also able to elevate to an angle from horizontal to around 70 degrees. Telehandlers have been called "zoom booms" because of their ability to telescope. This name has become rather famous with the operators.
One more optional boom related function is called a "Transaction". The telehandler outfitted with this alternative mounted on the chassis. When the operator activates it, the boom will move forward and back for distances up to 8 feet or more. Amongst the main benefits of this function is that it allows the forks to be cleanly withdrawn from a load and the forks could be inserted under cleanly, regardless of the boom angle.
The construction business have been revolutionized by zoom booms. They could accomplish many tasks that used to take much more time and man-power to do.