Did you know about 7.5 million people work in the construction industry? This workforce includes handling multipurpose tools like telehandlers. But as development and the need for innovation rise, various sectors use these large units to ease their workload.
These machines are part industrial, part engineering technology with hydraulic functions. They’re designed to elevate a load to a specific area and have enough rigidity to handle uneven terrain as they lift.
So what is a telehandler and what can they do apart from lifting loads? Read on to learn about this type of equipment and what companies use them for.
Understanding the Basics of a Telehandler
A telehandler is an industrial tractor and equipment used to move, lift, and place materials and pallets in various locations. It is also called a telescopic handler, extendable reach forklift, or telescopic loader. It has a telescoping boom that can you can extend or retract.
But what is the difference between a forklift and a telehandler? The length of the boom allows a telehandler to reach places that a typical forklift cannot.
This is very useful in many industries. The telescopic feature makes it possible to move heavy loads over great distances, making them ideal for working in tight spaces.
Different Styles and Models of Telehandlers Available
A telehandler is a type of lift truck that is more versatile than a conventional forklift. It can extend its lifting arm up to a certain height and reach a certain distance, allowing the operator to lift, move, and stack materials at height.
Telehandlers are available in various styles and sizes. They have small and compact models suited to indoor or light-duty applications. There are also larger and more robust models designed for heavy industrial use.
You can add different attachments to a telehandler for specific tasks. This includes buckets and forks, winches, and man-baskets, enabling operators to tailor the machine to suit the job.
Types of Telehandlers Available
Power machines are essential in many industries and come in various shapes, sizes, and combinations. Generally, they provide an efficient, safe, and comfortable way to lift, move, and place heavy materials. Thus, it is vital to know what is a telehandler used for and how each one differs, such as:
Standard Fixed Boom Telehandlers
This type of telehandler features a stable rectangular frame with two arms attached to a movable platform. This is raised and lowered using hydraulics or a hand crank. The platform is usually equipped with forks and can rotate, tilt, and extend.
These telehandlers can lift heavy objects from ground level. They are an ideal choice for loading and unloading construction materials. Additionally, you can use them for forestry, agricultural, and time-saving industrial applications.
Rotational Telehandlers
Rotational telehandlers are a type of telehandler that can tilt and rotate around a vertical axis. Unlike other types, they can move and rotate objects up to 360 degrees in all directions while maintaining accuracy and stability.
This makes them ideal for moving items into or out of different angles in tight spaces or hoisting heavier objects at any height required. Depending on the model, these telehandlers may also feature powered winches, booms, buckets, and more.
Heavy-Lift Telehandlers
Heavy-lift telehandlers carry heavier loads than regular-sized telehandlers. They are generally capable of lifting payloads over 3,000 kilograms and have a lifting height of up to 18 meters.
These are perfect for construction sites and agricultural applications. Also, they are great for industrial use and other areas where heavier and bulkier loads are common.
What Industries Can Use Them
A telehandler is vital in the construction, agriculture, and material handling industries. For starters, they are perfect for moving loads of material, lifting heavy loads, and stacking cargo. The versatility of a telehandler makes it an ideal solution for various applications.
Telehandlers carry materials and equipment in the construction, warehousing, and manufacturing sectors. They lift heavier loads faster and quicker than a forklift or crane and transfer items from one job site to the next.
In agriculture, they are invaluable for stacking and lifting pallets. Picking and stacking hay bales and lifting liquid tanks. The forestry industry uses telehandlers for loading and unloading cargo. They are also perfect for the precision lifting of logs and timber.
It is also helpful for digging trenches, prepping construction sites, and loading trucks. Telehandlers are vital for marine, transportation, mining, and municipal services.
Safety Considerations of Telehandlers
Safety should always come first when using this equipment because if it isn’t used properly, it can cause serious harm or damage. Telehandlers can only be used by people who have been trained and have used them before.
Make sure to service and maintain the equipment so it can be used safely and effectively. Always wear seat belts and the right PPE, like safety goggles, steel-toe safety boots, and hard hats.
Check the oil, fuel, tires, genie parts, and brakes before you start using the machine to make sure it is in good shape. Operators of telehandlers should also know how much weight the machine is rated to carry and never exceed that limit.
Operators also need to have the right training. It will make sure the unit works the way the manufacturer says it should. Not to mention that this makes it safer to use these big machines.
Learn What Is a Telehandler and Get the Most Out of It
Telehandlers are versatile machines that you can use in several industries. It can be in manufacturing, farming, construction, and other large-scale operations.
Quality units have impressive power in lifting pallets, telescopic boom, and powered bucket attachment. With these features, they can be invaluable tools for tackling challenging jobs. Learn what is a telehandler today and see how much it can improve your workflow.
Want to learn more? Visit our website for a plethora of tips, guides, and insights for all your needs!
