Italian telehandler maker, Merlo has aimed its sights at the burgeoning waste sector with the introduction of Waste Manager, a versatile heavy-duty bulk handler configured around its existing TF65.9 telehandler model.

Operating with interchangeable bucket and forks, the Waste Manager is a full-on telehandler that Denis McGrath, general manager with their Irish distributor, McHale Plant Sales says: “is augmented by beefed-up modifications, added components and operational enhancements that fully equip it to meet the expectations of a tough and demanding materials processing industry”.

Into the mix comes added underbody protection that extends the life of the vehicle and helps reduce maintenance and downtime. Another waste sector-specific feature is the provision of solid tyres in preference to air-filled alternatives – resulting in three-times higher wear resistance, increased safety, and the elimination of punctures, costly repairs and downtime.

Other innovations include a centralised greasing system, a high-flow hydraulic arrangement that eliminates the risk of oil overheating and excessive component wear, and a brush-protected boom whereby damaging matter is prevented from entering between sections and causing damage to internal components.

Cab comfort and safety rate highly with features that include 1,010 mm width, 360° visibility, and a glass area some 4.3 m² large. A low-frequency system sees a drastic reduction in vibrations and stresses inside the passenger compartment. Controls are grouped into functional areas, to maximise ergonomics while, to make driving even more comfortable, it can be equipped with Merlo’s patented suspended cab.

Rated to ISO 3449 FOPS Level II and ISO 3471 ROPS standards, its numerous other features include a protective windscreen grille, fitted fire extinguisher, improved cabin air filtration, an alarm that emits a more directional and signal when reversing, and an 11-strong LED headlights arrangement that illuminates the entire perimeter of the unit.

Another standard fitment is Active Boom Suspension that protects the load during transfer, reducing pitching and increasing comfort on rough terrain. To deliver maximum precision and power to the boom, the suspension is automatically deactivated at low speed (below 3 km/h