In the past ten years, telehandlers, also referred to as rough terrain variable reach forklifts, have exceeded the popularity of motorized mobile machinery. These machines have become the gem of the construction business and with excellent reason. These equipment are really strong, practical and versatile. Since some models and manufacturers has exploded during the last 5 years or so, there are presently a few of these machines 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 forklift. Any of the similarities between a vertical mast type of forklift and a telehandler literally ends on sight and on operation. There are some other significant differences between the two machinery discussed below.
Compared to a vertical mast, a telehandler has an entirely different appearance since it is designed with a horizontal boom. A telehandler with a jib attachment from a distance can resemble more of a crane rather than a forklift. The boom is able to extend and retract or telescope as long as 30 feet and beyond depending on the particular model. The boom is also able to elevate to an angle from horizontal to roughly 70 degrees. Telehandlers have been called "zoom booms" because of their ability to telescope. This name has become rather popular with the operators.
"Transaction" is another optional boom related function. Telehandlers which are outfitted with this alternative have a boom which is mounted on the chassis in such a way that when the operator activates it, the entire boom to travel forward and back, specifically for distances up to eight feet or so. Amongst the main benefits of this function is that it enables the forks to be withdrawn from a load cleanly or with no snags and the forks can be cleanly inserted underneath, regardless of the boom angle.
The construction industry have been revolutionized by zoom booms. They could perform many tasks which used to take a lot more time and man-power to do.