In the last ten years, telehandlers, also known as rough terrain variable reach lift trucks, have surpassed the reputation of powered mobile machines. These equipment have become the gem of the construction industry and with good reason. These kinds of equipment are useful, versatile and really strong. Since some models and manufacturers has exploded over the last 5 years or so, there are currently a few of these machinery readily offered 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 forklift, but just in name only. 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 distinctions between the two machinery 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 forklift. The boom could telescope or retract and extend to lengths of 30 feet and beyond which depends on the particular unit. The boom is also able to elevate to an angle from horizontal to about 70 degrees. Telehandlers have earned the nickname of "zoom booms" due to their ability to telescope. This name has become rather famous with the operators.
"Transaction" is a different optional boom related function. Telehandlers that are outfitted with this option have a boom that is mounted on the chassis in such a way that when the operator activates it, the entire boom to travel back and forward, particularly for distances up to eight feet or so. Amongst the major advantages of this function is that it allows the forks to be cleanly withdrawn from a load and the forks could be cleanly inserted under, regardless of the boom angle.
The construction business have been changed by zoom booms. They could accomplish numerous tasks which used to take much more man-power and time to do.