During the last decade, telehandlers, also known as rough terrain variable reach lift trucks, have exceeded the popularity of powered mobile machinery. These equipment have become the gem of the construction business and with good reason. These machinery are very strong, useful and versatile. Since the number of manufacturers and models has exploded during the past 5 years or so, there are now 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 lift truck, but only in name only. Any of the similarities between a vertical mast type of forklift and a telehandler literally ends on operation and on sight. There are some other major differences between the two machines discussed below.
A telehandler has an entirely different look since it is outfitted 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 lift truck. The boom can telescope or extend and retract to lengths of 30 feet and beyond that depends 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.
One more optional boom related function is known as a "Transaction". The telehandler equipped with this option mounted on the chassis. When the operator starts it, the boom will move back and forward for distances up to 8 feet or more. Among the key benefits of this function is that it enables the forks to be withdrawn from a cargo with no snags or cleanly and the forks can be cleanly inserted under, regardless of the boom angle.
Zoom booms have revolutionized the construction industry. They are able to accomplish many kinds of jobs that used to take much more time and man-power to do.