Introduction

Forklifts are popular industrial vehicles that have revolutionized material handling. Before forklifts were invented, industries relied on manual labor and animal-drawn carts to move materials. However, with the advent of forklifts, the material handling process became faster, safer, and more efficient.

There are different types of forklifts, each designed for specific purposes. Among them is the telescopic forklift, commonly known as the telehandler. In this article, we will explore what a telescopic forklift is, its features, applications, benefits, and the various names it is known by.

What is a Telescopic Forklift?

A telescopic forklift is a specialized type of industrial vehicle that incorporates a telescopic boom to lift and unload materials. The boom can extend or retract, giving the forklift the capability to lift and move materials to heights and distances that a conventional forklift cannot.

The telehandler is a versatile machine that can handle a wide range of tasks such as loading and unloading materials, transporting goods, lifting heavy equipment, and even construction work. It is a valuable asset in many industries, including construction, agriculture, mining, and manufacturing.

Features of a Telescopic Forklift

A telescopic handler has several features that make it unique and effective. The following are some of its notable features:

- Telescopic Boom: The boom is the most distinctive feature of the telehandler. It is usually mounted on the chassis and has a hydraulic system that enables it to extend and retract. Most telescopic booms can extend up to 30 feet or more, depending on the model.

- Pallet Forks: The telehandler has pallet forks attached to the boom, which are used to lift and move materials. The forks can be adjusted horizontally and vertically to accommodate different load sizes and shapes.

- Four-wheel Drive: To enhance mobility, most telescopic handlers come with four-wheel drive. This feature enables the machine to work on rough terrain, steep slopes, and muddy conditions.

- Load Capacity: The telehandler has varying load capacities, depending on the model. The load capacity can range from 5,000 pounds to over 30,000 pounds.

- Operator Cab: The telehandler has a spacious operator cab that provides a comfortable working environment for the operator. The cab is equipped with safety features such as seat belts, roll-over protection, and a clear view of the working area.

Applications of a Telescopic Forklift

The telehandler is widely used in various industries, thanks to its versatility and capabilities. The following are some of its common applications:

- Construction: The telehandler is a valuable asset in the construction industry, where it is used for lifting heavy materials such as steel beams, concrete blocks, and bricks. It is also used for transporting materials to high elevations, where conventional forklifts cannot reach.

- Agriculture: The telehandler is useful in the agricultural sector, where it is used for loading and unloading materials such as hay, feed, and fertilizer. It is also used for lifting and transporting heavy farm equipment.

- Mining: The telehandler is utilized in the mining industry for various tasks such as transporting ores, moving heavy machinery, and loading materials onto trucks.

- Manufacturing: The telehandler is often used in manufacturing facilities for material handling, loading and unloading trucks, and transporting goods.

- Maintenance: The telehandler is also used in maintenance and repair work, where it is used for lifting heavy equipment, replacing light bulbs, and performing other tasks that require lifting.

Benefits of a Telescopic Forklift

The telehandler has several advantages that make it a popular choice in many industries. Some of its benefits include:

- Versatility: The telehandler is a versatile machine that can handle multiple tasks, making it an invaluable asset in industries where different materials need to be handled.

- Mobility: The telehandler''s four-wheel drive enables it to work on rough terrain, steep slopes, and other challenging conditions.

- Safety: The telehandler has safety features such as seat belts, roll-over protection, and a clear view of the working area, ensuring the operator''s safety.

- Efficiency: The telehandler''s ability to extend and retract the boom saves time and energy, enabling the operator to complete tasks faster and more efficiently.

What is a Telescopic Forklift Called?

The telehandler is known by different names, depending on the region or industry. Some of its alternate names include:

- Telehandler: This is the most commonly used name for the telescopic forklift.

- Teleporter: This name is popular in Europe, especially in the UK and Ireland.

- Boom Lift: In some industries such as construction, the telescopic forklift is referred to as a boom lift.

- Skytrak: This is a popular brand name for the telehandler.

- Reach Forklift: Sometimes, the telescopic forklift is called a reach forklift, due to the boom''s ability to reach distant locations.

Conclusion

A telescopic forklift, also known as a telehandler, is a specialized industrial vehicle that incorporates a telescopic boom to lift and unload materials. Its features, applications, and benefits make it a valuable asset in various industries, including construction, agriculture, mining, and manufacturing. The telehandler''s versatility, mobility, safety, and efficiency make it a great machine for any material handling task. Its alternate names such as telehandler, teleporter, boom lift, skytrak, and reach forklift show how popular and widely used it is in different regions and industries.