Over the last decade, telehandlers, also known as rough terrain variable reach lift trucks, have exceeded the reputation of motorized mobile equipment. These machinery have become the gem of the construction industry and with good reason. These types of machines are useful, versatile and really strong. Because several models and manufacturers has exploded over the past 5 years or so, there are currently a number of these equipment 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 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 several other significant distinctions between the two equipment discussed below.
As apposed to a vertical mast, a telehandler has a completely different appearance as it is made 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 retract and extend or telescope as long as 30 feet and beyond depending on the particular model. The boom could also 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 option mounted on the chassis. When the operator activates it, the boom would move back and forward for distances up to 8 feet or more. One of the key benefits of this function is that it enables the forks to be withdrawn from a load with no snags or cleanly and the forks can be inserted under cleanly, regardless of the boom angle.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 business have been changed by zoom booms. They can perform many jobs that used to take much more man-power and time to complete.