During the last decade, telehandlers, also known as rough terrain variable reach lift trucks, have surpassed the reputation of motorized mobile equipment. These equipment have become the gem of the construction business and with excellent reason. These kinds of equipment are extremely strong, useful and versatile. Because several manufacturers and units has exploded over the last 5 years or so, there are now a number of these machines 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 forklift, but only in name only. Any of the similarities between a telehandler and a vertical mast type forklift literally ends on sight and on operation. There are some other significant differences between the two machinery discussed below.
A telehandler has an entirely different look since it is outfitted with a horizontal boom as opposed to a vertical mast. From a distance, a telehandler with a jib attachment can resemble more of a mobile crane rather than a lift truck. The boom could telescope or extend and retract as long as 30 feet and beyond depending on the specific model. 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.
Another optional boom related function is known as a "Transaction". The telehandler outfitted with this option mounted on the chassis. When the operator starts it, the boom would move back and forward for distances up to 8 feet or more. Amongst the main advantages of this function is that it enables the forks to be withdrawn from a load with no snags or cleanly and the forks can be inserted under cleanly, regardless of the boom angle.
The construction industry have been revolutionized by zoom booms. They could perform numerous jobs which used to take much more time and man-power to do.