5 Most Common Uses of Telehandlers in Various Industries

8 Min read

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Caleb Woods

Caleb Woods

Content Specialist, Boom & Bucket

May 30, 2023

Telehandlers also called boom lifts, lift heavy loads in various industries. They are versatile machines for construction and agriculture. Telehandlers have telescopic arms for reaching high places. They are used for lifting in different industries.

These machines use hydraulics to control wheels and booms for precise load positioning. They usually have 4WD and steer for manoeuvring in rough or tight areas. These vehicles are equipped with four-wheel drive and steering. They are designed for effective manoeuvring on rough terrain or in confined spaces.

In this article, we will deep dive into the common uses in various industries throughout the world.

Largest lift capacity of a Telehandler

The capacity of telehandlers usually ranges from 4,400 to 12,000 lbs (2,000 to 5,400 kg). depending based on the specific model and configuration. It's important to note that the greatest lift capacity is not achievable at the largest reach and lift capacity and height of the boom.

The actual lifting capacity of telehandler models decreases as the boom extends outward. Operating telehandlers within specified limits and handling heavy loads cautiously is crucial.

What are the best Telehanders with the largest lift capacity?

Determining the "best" telehandler depends on specific requirements and preferences. Some well-known telehandler manufacturers are JCB, Caterpillar, Manitou, Genie, and Merlo.

The largest lifting capacity of telehandlers varies based on model and configuration. Here are a few examples of telehandlers with notable lifting capacities:

1. JCB 540-200: This model offers the largest lifting capacity of 8818.49 lbs (4,000 kg).

2. Caterpillar TH417C: It has the largest lifting capacity of 8818 lbs (4000 kg).

3. Manitou MHT 12330: This telehandler boasts a lifting capacity of 73,000 lb (33112.243).

4. Genie GTH-1544: It has a largest lifting capacity of 15,000-lb (6,804 kg)

5. Merlo P120.10HM: This model provides a lifting capacity of 11,000 lbs. (4989.5161 kg).

The figures are approximate and can change due to factors like boom extension, load position, and attachment used. Always consult manufacturers' specifications for accurate lifting capacity information on specific models.

Different Attachments for Reliable Telescopic Handler

Always consult manufacturers' specifications for accurate lifting capacity information on specific models. Some common attachments used with telehandlers include:

1. Forks: Fork attachments are the most common and basic attachment for telehandlers. They are used for lifting and carrying pallets, crates, and other similar loads.

2. Buckets: Bucket attachments are used for handling loose materials such as soil, gravel, or debris. They can be equipped with teeth or cutting edges for enhanced digging or scooping capabilities.

3. Grapple Attachments: Grapple attachments grip and handle logs, branches, or waste effectively.

4. Jib Attachments: Jib attachments add extra reach and height capabilities to the telehandler. They are commonly used for tasks that must extend reach, such as lifting loads over obstacles or reaching elevated areas.

5. Man Baskets: Man baskets, also known as work platforms or aerial platforms. They are used to lift workers to perform tasks at elevated heights. They provide a secure and stable platform for tasks such as maintenance, construction, or inspection.

6. Winches: Winch attachments lift or pull heavy loads, providing extra pulling power. They are utilized for hauling equipment or machinery.

7. Hook Attachments: Hook attachments are used for lifting loads with chains or straps. They provide a secure connection point for lifting various objects.

8. Weeper Attachments: Sweeper attachments clean, sweep, and collect ground debris in various applications.

9. Material Handling Arm: Material handling arms lift and move long cylindrical objects like pipes and poles. They are also known as pipe or pole handlers. These attachments are designed for specialized tasks. They can handle beams, pipes, and poles efficiently.

10. Auger Attachments: Auger attachments drill holes in the ground for fencing, foundations, or landscaping. They have diverse applications in drilling for different purposes. Auger attachments are useful for various tasks involving hole creation.

These are just a few examples of the attachments available for telehandlers. Attachment choice depends on the application, task needs, and desired functionality for handling materials. Factors like application, tasks, and functionality dictate attachment selection for material handling.

Working Principle of Telehandlers

This allows operators to use various features for efficient material transfer. Some key features include:

Steering options

Telehandlers offer different steering modes to accommodate the load being carried. Operators have front-wheel steering, four-wheel steering, and crab steering options. These options enable precise manoeuvring in tight spaces.

Boom flexibility

The telehandler's telescopic boom provides a similar range of motion as a crane. The machine can move up, down, left, and right to reach its goal. It can also extend and retract, avoiding obstacles in its path. The versatile movements enable the precise positioning of the machine.

Adjustable forks

Like a forklift, telehandlers use forks to lift materials from the ground. Operators can adjust fork position, and tilting for load balance and stability. Forks can be moved forward or backwards as needed by operators. This allows for better load balance and increased stability.

Load stabilizers

In situations where a load appears too heavy for the telehandler, it is equipped with load stabilizers. These features prevent wheel movement, increasing the largest carrying capacity and ensuring the safe handling of heavy loads.

Frame leveling

Telehandlers are designed to maintain stability on unstable surfaces. With the help of their axles, they can keep the machine level even on rough or uneven terrains, enhancing performance and safety.

Telehandlers are a valuable asset on construction sites, combining forklift and crane capabilities. They perform material handling tasks efficiently with advanced features.

5 Common Uses of Telehandlers in Various Industry

Telehandlers are vital in many industries due to their strength, adaptability, and versatility. They can lift heavy loads, navigate tight spaces, and use different attachments, making them essential assets. Let's explore the most common attachments and uses of telehandlers in different industries.

Construction Industry

1. Material Handling: They are adept at loading and unloading materials like bricks, steel beams, lumber, and construction supplies. They efficiently move heavy loads on construction sites with their high lifting capacity and reach.

2. Work at Heights: With the use of man baskets or aerial platforms, telehandlers help with tasks requiring work at elevated heights. This includes activities like installation, maintenance, and repairs on buildings or structures.

Agriculture and Farming

1. Hay and Straw Handling: Telehandlers efficiently handle bales of hay and straw, allowing for quick loading, stacking, and transportation.

2. Equipment Manipulation: They are used for tasks like moving and positioning agricultural machinery. Such machinery includes seeders, sprayers, and feeders. These machines help optimize farm operations.

3. Livestock Handling: Telehandlers assist in lifting and placing items like feed troughs, water tanks, and temporary fencing, enhancing livestock management.

How to Operate a Telehandler in Difficult Conditions

Manufacturing and Warehousing

Material Loading and Stacking

Telehandlers streamline warehouse operations by efficiently loading and unloading palletized goods. They can place items on shelves, trucks, wheels, or conveyors. This enhances productivity and saves time.

Inventory Management: They are utilized for organizing, relocating, and restocking inventory within warehouses, maximizing storage space use and productivity.

Landscaping and Maintenance

Tree Care: Telehandlers help with tree tasks using attachments like grapples or trimmers. They aid in trimming, pruning, and removing trees effectively. Specialized attachments like tree grapples or trimmers make the process easier.

Landscaping: They help move rocks, soil, and plants for creating gardens, parks, and green spaces.

Snow Removal: Telehandlers with snow blades or blowers clear roads, lots, and pathways of snow. They are used in Infrastructure developments like:

  1. Power Line Maintenance

  2. Telescopic handlers support power line maintenance and repairs with insulated buckets or platforms.

  3. They ensure worker safety during these tasks.

Street Lighting: They help with streetlight installation and maintenance, ensuring reliable public illumination. They install and maintain streetlights, ensuring reliable lighting for public areas. Their role is vital for dependable illumination in urban spaces.

Pipe and Cable Installation: Telehandlers lift and position pipes, cables, and utility equipment in infrastructure projects.

Leading Brands in Telehandlers: JCB, Caterpillar, John Deere, Manitou, Genie, and Merlo are well-known brands. They offer reliable telehandlers for specific industry needs. These brands provide a wide range of models with varying lifting capacities, reach capabilities, and attachments.

Renting vs. Buying: Telescopic handler

Telehandlers are versatile machines, suitable for various practical applications. Purchasing one appears wise. Renting offers distinct advantages based on industry and budget. It allows flexibility to swap models and adaptable rental pricing.

When to Consider Buying a Telehandler

Buying a telehandler is ideal for companies depending on them daily and having the financial capacity for maintenance. It is important to note that buyers may also need to get attachments and maintenance materials separately. Smaller telehandlers can handle loads up to 4,440 pounds. Larger units can lift up to 16,000 pounds.

You May Read: Advantages of Telescopic Handlers for Material Handling

Conclusion

When deciding whether to buy or rent a telehandler, companies should consider their daily operations, budget, and maintenance costs. Buying is suitable for those who heavily rely on telehandlers and can afford attachments and upkeep.

Size selection is crucial, with small devices lifting up to 4,440 lbs and large units capable of carrying 16,000 lbs. Careful consideration ensures the right choice for project scale and budget constraints.

Visit Boom & Bucket to buy and sell your machinery.

Caleb Woods
Caleb Woods

Caleb Woods is an experienced content specialist and an editor at Boom & Bucket, blending his journalism background with expertise in the heavy equipment industry. He delivers engaging, informative content to help professionals stay informed and make smarter decisions in the machinery market.

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