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Focus on the Telescopic Handler Market
Let’s be honest: the telehandler market is not enjoying the best of times. After several years of record sales across the north and south of Ireland, there’s now a marked slowdown in line with the rest of the industry.
That said, sales are still being recorded by dealers here and there’s optimism that the market may pick up again later next year.
Over the next few pages, Plant & Civil Engineer will be looking at what’s currently available on the telescopic handler front, highlighting some of the best in each of the manufacturers’ impressive line-ups....
Leading contractor
goes for Merlo Telehandlers
The ultra-highlift P40 series has proven to be one of Merlo UK’s most popular models with contractors, such as TAL Ltd., who recently took delivery from dealers Saville Machinery of three new P40.17 machines, increasing their current Merlo fleet to seven.
The machines are currently working on contracts in Mersey Street in Belfast where 88 new homes are being built, another on a housing development in Carrickfergus and the third on a nursing home project in Bangor.
“We have been running Merlo telehandlers from 1999, as well as various other makes. We have found Merlo to be very reliable, they are well priced, and we get an excellent back up support from Saville Machinery,” says TAL’s Damien Hughes. “All of these elements are important to the successful running of our telehandler fleet.
“Over the last nine years, we have bought a total of 16 Merlo machines and when we decided to purchase three new machines, we looked at what was available on the market, maintenance costs, running costs and the actual cost to change, and the deal we got from Saville Machinery and Merlo wasn’t to be beaten!”
So what does Merlo offer? To start with, all new models have a brand new cab with increased levels of comfort, featuring Merlo’s revolutionary MERlin digital control system built into the instrument panel, and all models share the DEUTZ 74.9 kW (102 HP) engine mated to a 40 km/h transmission and Load-sensing hydraulic system. Also standard is Merlo’s integral sideshift and frame levelling front axle.
Particularly attractive is the ‘Load-sensing’ hydraulic system, available both on construction and increasingly on farm handlers.
The simpler gear pump driven systems are perfectly satisfactory for many low production applications. However, the increasing size and performance of telehandlers and the use of more and more attachments that require continuous hydraulic flow has led to a need for greater flow rates.
It would be very wasteful to have a huge engine merely to drive the hydraulics, so ‘Load-sensing’ is the answer. A much larger flow pump can be used (150 l/min in the case of many Turbofarmers), which means that speed of operation is much increased.
However, when a load is applied, a management system reduces the flow rate to match the available power of the engine.
Other advantages include a smoother, lower engine speed operation and a reduction in fuel consumption, even when idling. A further refinement is ‘Flow-sharing’ which matches an electronic valve block ensuring positive and proportional control, whatever the load demands of individual circuits.
Incidentally, the side shift on the frame is a Merlo patent; no other telehandler has this facility so adding to the flexibility and manoeuvrability of the machine. Too, Merlo telehandlers now come standard with Datatag security back up.
Liebherr telehandlers - ‘powerful and versatile‘
The Liebherr telehandler range, launched in the UK at the beginning of the year, comprise the TL 435–10, TL 435–13, TL 445–10 and TL 442–13, each configured according to lifting height (10 m and 13 m) and maximum lifting capacity (3.5 t and 4.5 t). All four machines are equipped with turbocharged four-cylinder in-line engines with outputs of 80 kW / 109 hp.
Featuring a very favourable centre of gravity, as a result of the low coupling point for the telescopic boom, the new telescopic handlers are extremely stable and demonstrate especially high lifting power in the upper ranges of their reach. To improve flectional strength, the telescopic handler boom has been fitted with a semi-circular continuously curved bottom shell. This basic ovaloid boom profile design principle has long proved itself on Liebherr mobile cranes as the ideal configuration for maximum load capacities.
High-performance working hydraulics and the proven Liebherr hydrostatic travel drive ensure that the telescopic handlers operate powerfully and quickly with short work cycles. The hydrostatic travel drive’s stepless control and finely tuned responses mean manoeuvring is precise, rapid and smooth over the whole speed range without the need to change gears.
All four types of Liebherr telescopic handler are based on the same vehicle chassis and, because of their manoeuvrability, these compactly constructed machines are ideal for use in cramped conditions. They have an extremely tight turning circle – 3.8 m maximum – and so lead the way in their machine class.
Three different steering modes – front-wheel drive, four-wheel drive and crab steering – are quick and easy to electronically pre-select. It is not even necessary to align the wheels before switching from one steering mode to another, as is normally the case on conventional machines.
Numerous add-ons make the Liebherr telescopic handlers all-purpose working machines – able to take on anything from simple loading operations through a wide variety of construction tasks to industrial work in recycling and materials handling.
The Liebherr joystick makes it easy to operate the new telescopic handlers with extreme precision. With Liebherr hydraulic controls, all joystick movements can be effected independently of the load to be moved and adjusting the boom precisely. Switches governing direction of travel are also included in the joystick for simple forward and reverse travel. By using the electronic fingertip-control function, the driver can reduce the speed of the working and travel hydraulics by three levels to enable even greater accuracy.
Design enhancements for Genie
Genie has incorporated an extensive package of design enhancements to its GTH- 2506 compact rough-terrain telehandler, available from distributors Sleator Plant.
These enhancements include a strong, comfortable cab for increased operator productivity, increased load capacity at maximum reach, a new engine to meet the latest environmental emission standards, and an easily accessible engine compartment for ease of service.
The cab on the GTH-2506 has been completely re-engineered. The floor-mounted throttle and foot brake pedals have been repositioned to improve operator comfort. Most of the switches have been grouped and relocated on the right side of the dashboard ahead of the joystick to simplify operations. A new hall-effect electrical joystick has been installed with an independent proportional boom control to provide operators fast, precise positioning the minimal effort.
To help improve productivity on the jobsite, the GTH -2506 now lifts 900 kg at its maximum reach, 100kg more than the previous model. The compact footprint and the lower height have been maintained because these features make it a very successful model which is easy to transport and manoeuvre, especially in parking garages and congested construction sites.
Additionally, the GTH - 2506 features a new 50 kW Deutz engine that is compliant with the latest Tier 3 emissions regulations. To accommodate this, the engine compartment has been redesigned for convenient access to the internal components.
The hydraulics have also been upgraded. The flow on the auxiliary line (which controls the hydraulic attachment connection/disconnection function) now incorporates reversible and continuous flow functionality through a two-position electrical switch; the direction and the rate of the flow are controlled by a dedicated manual knob placed at the back of the joystick. When the auxiliary continuous flow function is activated, the other three functions of the boom are still active: boom up and down, boom telescoping and fork tilt, enabling the execution of simultaneous operation.
GTH - 3007
All the innovations introduced on the GTH - 2506 have been also extended to the GTH - 3007. In particular, on this machine some important measurements have been increased: maximum lifting height capacity rose up to 6.90 m and the forward reach to 3.90 m.
New Holland’s Diverse LM Range
There are eight models in the New Holland LM telehandler line-up covering a diverse range of applications, with attractive features including a spacious cab that is said to offer the best visibility available on the market.
Available from dealers Portadown based Burkes, and Cowan Brothers in Londonderry, the LM’s rounded front profile and large glass area give the operator total control of the arm in every position, as well as of right, left and rear side when manoeuvring in restricted working spaces.
An exceptionally wide door , opens 180° and is constructed in two sections to unable the upper section to be opened independently from the lower one. Both door sections may be secured at the fully open position for operator safety and convenience.
Inside the cab, the instruments and controls are ergonomically located to ensure operator comfort and safety. The standard, continuously adjustable, tilting steering column grants a full range of operator adjustments to provide his most suitable driving position.
New Holland telehanlers are equipped with the last generation of CNH diesel engines with 4.5 litres displacement. These modern power plants, with different configurations and settings, develop the right power requested by each model while complying with European Standards 97/68/EC.
Reaching up and out with Manitou
The Manitou range is described as ‘the benchmark telescopic truck for the building and civil engineering sector,’ and distributors Northern Lift Trucks, we suspect, would agree with that.
Certainly, the MT telescopic truck line up offers a wide spectrum of lifting heights between 5 and 17 m for 2 to 4.5 ton loads, and many attachments are available to optimise working time on site and improve productivity.
These telescopic handlers are not only compact, but are high reach construction machines. Take the popular MT1436, with a maximum lifting height of almost 14 metres. Powered by a Perkins engine, it features a torque convertor and hydraulic stabilizers, and also offers a forward reach of 9.42 metres.
Northern Trucks Brian Bradford tells us it has attracted plenty of plaudits since The MT range was launched a year ago.
Then there is the bigger MT 1840, offering a lifting height of 17.5 metres, and an impressive forward reach of over 13 metres, making it ideal for a variety of construction and building environments.
The Compact JCB 520.50
JCB’s compact 520.50 telehandler, available from distributors BC Plant, delivers on both the performance and productivity front. The permanent 4 wheel steer and 4 wheeled drive, together with the compact machine size, means an exceptionally tight turning circle with a radius of just 3 metres over the tyres for great manoeuvrability and handling in small yards.
Four equal sized wheels enhance tractive effort to give excellent loader performance and flotation over soft ground conditions, with first class ground clearance.
A full power braking system ensures maximum safety and machine stability. Direct acting brakes on each wheel are activated through JCB axles for maximum control.
Operators will be attracted to the comfortable cab, which is very easy to work in, thanks to the ergonomically positioned instrumentation and controls helping to minimise fatigue.
The centrally-mounted cab provides the operator with panoramic forward visibility which also ensures excellent tool carrier visibility, while the low boom design means that there is nothing obscuring the view to the rear of the machine.
CAT’s highly versatile machine delivers
Caterpillar telehandlers, available from distributors McCormick Macnaughton, are designed to meet the varying needs of both the construction and agricultural industries and offer a comprehensive range of standard features and optional equipment.
The TH580B, for example, is a highly versatile machine, designed to deliver maximum performance with traditional Cat reliability, durability and productivity in the toughest working conditions. No wonder it is a popular model here.
The machine features a comfortable, spacious, and ergonomically designed cab, with considerable attention paid to control layout, and all round visibility is excellent.
The joystick is capable of three simultaneous boom functions making machine operation easy and all functions are fully modulated. The joystick also operates the auxiliary hydraulic function and allows the option of a second auxiliary service for the use of work tools that require more than one hydraulic service.
Cab entry and exit is both easy and safe due to the well placed handholds and step. The machine also provides full operator security with ROPS/FOPS protection, while there are a variety of seats available, tailored to meet the requirements of the operator and applications.
All new telehandler from Dieci
Dieci have launched an all new Torque converter Telehandler called the Agri Plus 40.7, to compliment their already established hydrostatic range; available through dealers Dieci Ltd (Newry), it’s been designed from the ground up.
An all new chassis with a very low boom pivot and heavy duty boom has been designed for strength, visibility, manoeuvrability, and stability, encompassing integrated rear ballast weight, no overhang on this machine, and probably one of the tightest turning radius for a 4 tonne, 7 metre Telehandler on the market.
Dieci are using a range of well known and proven components for this all new Telehandler, such as 2 x limited slip differentials for superb traction and wet inboard brakes. These axles are sourced from Spicer. The 128hp Turbo intercooled engine is sourced from Cummins Iveco, while the 4fwd and 3rev powershift transmission is sourced from Clarke transmissions.
The direct Agri plus 40.7 is also fitted with a third pedal used as an inching facility, a standard feature on all their hydrostatic machines.
Two cab height options are available at 2300mm or 2450mm giving 360’ high visibility, Boom suspension at a flick of a switch, a 160 litre fuel tank, and choice of cross ply radial tyres.
Stability Komatsu’s key to success
When you are working on varied terrain and in all sorts of weather and ground conditions, stability is a key factor, and that’s where the Komatsu WH range, available from dealers
W A C McCandless, scores highly.
The low position of the load centre, the innovative extending system, the wide bearing area and a huge range of stability devices, place the WH range’s lifting performances at the top of its class and guarantee a high safety level for the operators.
One of the most popular machines in the range is the 14m WH714H. The ROPS/FOPS cab has a modern and ergonomic layout. It is mounted on four elastic supports to reduce vibration and internal noise level.
Several well distributed storage spaces in the cab maximize comfort and a state of the art LCD panel displays all the main readings. The servo-controlled joystick features a unique slider switch and allows three simultaneous boom functions: lifting, extending and tool carriage rotation. The adjustable wrist rest reduces operator fatigue.
Getting in and out is also easy, thanks to a door which opens at 180° and is made of two parts: both can be fully opened and secured for more air circulation; the lower windows enhance visibility.
Indeed, the wide glass surfaces, the super low boom profile, the extension system with internal cylinder and chains and the low position of the stabiliser frame give Komatsu’s telescopic handlers an unrivalled all around visibility. Forks and wheels are well visible from the seat so the operator constantly has a perfect control of the working area.
The wide steering angle (52°) also makes the steering radius, both for tyres and forks, extremely short for a machine in this category.
Bobcat’s Three-In-One Machine
Launched earlier this year, Bobcat’s new T2250 is being marketed as a
three-in-one machine, offering operators the benefits of the skid-steer
loader, articulated wheeled loader and a telehandler.
“This makes it ideal for a wide range of applications such as plant hire, landscaping, small construction sites, agricultural purposes – it really does tick a lot of boxes,” says Alan Cranston, of Bobcat Distributors Cranston Plant.
“It has a versatility no other machine can match. It’s equipped to tackle any loading job and is compatible with many more attachments than traditional ‘pick and place’ telescopic handlers.”
The T2250, with a rated lift capacity of 2.2 tonne and a maximum lift height of 5.2 m, features a single loader-style hydraulic joystick for boom and bucket functions - with variable control thumb wheels for boom extension and auxiliary functions, a single shuttle lever for forward, reverse and high and low speeds, and a single lever for turn signals, horn and high-beam road lights
Like for all Bobcat machines, safety is a priority for the T2250, which is powered by the Kubota 56 kW 4-cylinder V3300-DI turbo-charged diesel engine.
With a ROPS/FOPS cab and advanced hydrostatic transmission, the T2250 ensures safe operation and travel even in the toughest conditions. And operators always have an excellent view thanks to the large windows and built-in demisting and ventilation systems. An array of features completes the T2250’s all-round safety including a security belt and access handles as standard.
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