During the last decade, telehandlers, also known as rough terrain variable reach lift trucks, have exceeded the reputation of motorized mobile machinery. These equipment have become the gem of the construction business and with good reason. These machinery are practical, versatile and really powerful. As several manufacturers and units has exploded during the last 5 years or so, there are now a number of these machinery 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 some other significant differences between the two equipment discussed below.
Compared to a vertical mast, a telehandler has a completely 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 telescope or retract and extend to lengths of 30 feet and beyond which depends on the particular model. The boom could also elevate to an angle from horizontal to about 70 degrees. Telehandlers have been called "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 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. Among the key benefits of this function is that it enables the forks to be cleanly withdrawn from a cargo and the forks could be cleanly inserted under, regardless of the boom angle.
Zoom booms have revolutionized the construction business. They could accomplish many jobs that used to take much more time and man-power to do.