Over the last ten years, telehandlers, also known as rough terrain variable reach forklifts, have exceeded the reputation of powered mobile machines. These machines have become the gem of the construction industry and with excellent reason. These kinds of machinery are versatile, really strong and useful. Since the number of units and manufacturers has exploded over the past 5 years or so, there are now a few of these machines readily offered on the market.
The Telehandler is considered a Class 7 Powered Industrial Truck. Just in name, 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 operation and on sight. There are several other major distinctions between the two machines discussed below.
Compared to a vertical mast, a telehandler has an entirely different look because it is designed with a horizontal boom. A telehandler with a jib attachment from a distance can look more like a crane rather than a forklift. The boom can retract and extend or telescope 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 approximately 70 degrees. Telehandlers have earned the nickname of "zoom booms" because of their ability to telescope. This name has become rather famous with the operators.
One more optional boom related function is referred to as a "Transaction". The telehandler equipped with this alternative mounted on the chassis. When the operator activates it, the boom would move forward and back for distances up to 8 feet or more. Amongst the key benefits of this function is that it allows the forks to be withdrawn from a load cleanly or with no snags and the forks can be cleanly inserted under, regardless of the boom angle.
Zoom booms have revolutionized the construction industry. They could perform numerous tasks that used to take much more man-power and time to finish.