In the demanding world of heavy industry, powerful and reliable off-road trucks are essential for moving massive amounts of material. The Euclid-Hitachi EH700-3 is one such machine, a product of a significant collaboration between two major equipment manufacturers. Designed to handle challenging environments, the EH700-3 brought notable improvements over previous models. This article will explore the history behind its development, its core technical features, and its role as a capable off-road hauler.
Where Did It All Begin?
The story of the Euclid-Hitachi EH700-3 is rooted in a partnership formed in 1992. At this time, the VME Group owned Euclid and joined forces with Hitachi equipment to create Euclid-Hitachi. This collaboration was significant as it granted Hitachi the rights to manufacture and market all of Euclid’s existing line of haulers.
Over time, the branding and numbering evolved. In 2000, the trucks were renumbered, transitioning from the older Euclid “R” model numbers to Hitachi’s newer “EH” series. The EH700 model itself was specifically launched in 2001. It was introduced as a direct replacement for the older R90C model. The specific trucks observed in the source material are 2007 models.
Core Technical Features
The EH700-3 is packed with features designed for heavy-duty performance and durability in off-road conditions.
Engine & Drivetrain
Powering the EH700-3 are robust engine options. The truck currently comes standard from Hitachi with an MTU Detroit 16V 2000 series diesel engine. This standard engine is capable of producing 1,500 gross horsepower. There is also an optional engine available, which previously was the standard offering for these trucks. This optional engine is the Cummins QST30, which produces 1,050 horsepower.
The transmission system is critical for transmitting power to the wheels. The EH700-3 comes standard with an Allison H 8610 transmission. An optional transmission, the Allison H 9610A, is also available. The primary functional difference between these two transmissions lies in their reverse capabilities. The Allison 8610 model has one reverse gear, while the Allison 9610A model has two reverse gears. A notable design improvement in the EH700 compared to some older Euclid haulers is the placement of the transmission. While older models sometimes had the transmission hanging underneath the superstructure, the EH700 features the transmission mounted up inside the frame. This is described as an all-around better design because it offers more protection to the transmission.
Fuel is stored in a substantial tank located on the right-hand side of the truck. This diesel fuel tank has a capacity of 265 gallons. Gauges are present on the tank, allowing mechanics or fuel attendants to easily see the fuel level.
On the left-hand side of the truck is the hydraulic oil tank. This tank is uniquely designed as one tank that is divided into two sections. One part of this divided tank is dedicated to the hoist system, which is responsible for raising and lowering the dump box. The other part of the tank is for the steering system. Similar to the fuel tank, gauges are provided to show the hydraulic oil levels. Lift cylinders, used to raise and lower the dump box, are also visible.
Suspension & Chassis
A key technological feature of the EH700-3 is its sophisticated independent trailing arm suspension system. The system includes a trailing arm, which is sometimes mistakenly called the axle, that connects directly to the front tire. Connecting from the trailing arm to the top of the superstructure is a cylinder known as a neocon suspension strut.
This neocon strut utilizes a specific combination of materials to absorb energy. It contains an energy-absorbing gas and a compressible neocon E fluid. The gas used in the top part of the cylinder is helium. The lower part of the cylinder is filled with the neocon E fluid. The neocon E fluid is particularly effective, designed to absorb twice as much kinetic energy as rubber or nitrogen. The design of this advanced suspension system is intended to absorb kinetic energy from the terrain without transmitting shock to the truck’s frame. This is what provides the truck with its suspension when driving.
The truck’s structure also includes features for maintenance access. Ladders are present to allow mechanics to get up on top of the frame of the truck to work on the engine area. The battery box is located on the top deck. The truck is also equipped with two air cleaners and two air intakes. The operator’s cab features a standard Hitachi setup, designed to provide a comfortable operating environment for the operator.
Payload & Performance
The EH700 was designed to offer significant performance enhancements compared to its predecessor, the Euclid R90C. When compared to the R90C, the EH700 provided 20% more horsepower, 10% more torque, and an 8% increase in payload capacity. These figures demonstrate a clear step up in capability.
Over its lifespan, the rated payload capacity of the EH700 has also evolved. When the EH700 trucks were first introduced, they were initially rated at 97.7 tons. However, Hitachi currently rates this truck with a higher payload capacity of 104.9 tons. This change suggests a potential re-evaluation or certification based on operational experience or design parameters.
Applications in the Field
Based on its design as an “off-road haul truck” and a “mining truck”, and given its substantial payload capacity and heavy-duty features, the Euclid-Hitachi EH700-3 is primarily suited for applications requiring the movement of large volumes of material over challenging terrain. This includes operations in mining environments and potentially other heavy off-road construction projects. Its robust construction and high capacity make it a workhorse for sites where material transport is a critical part of the operation.
What Makes It Stand Out?
Several features distinguish the EH700-3. Its advanced independent trailing arm suspension with neocon suspension struts utilizing helium gas and specialized neocon E fluid is a key highlight, specifically designed to absorb kinetic energy highly effectively without stressing the frame. Another significant design improvement is the relocation of the transmission up inside the frame, providing better protection compared to older designs where it was more exposed. The unique split design of the hydraulic oil tank for dedicated hoist and steering functions also represents a specific engineering choice. Beyond these major components, practical features like the ladders for engine access, the easily accessible battery box on the top deck, and the twin air cleaners and intakes contribute to the truck’s operational design. The comfortable operator’s cab is also noted as a standard Hitachi feature.
Final Thoughts
The Euclid-Hitachi EH700-3 off-road truck stands as a significant machine in the evolution of heavy haulers, born from the collaboration between Euclid and Hitachi. Its design represented a clear step forward from its predecessor, offering improved performance metrics. With its advanced suspension system, robust engine options, well-engineered drivetrain components including the protected transmission, and substantial, evolving payload capacity, the EH700-3 is built to tackle the demanding requirements of mining and heavy off-road applications. It embodies the partnership’s goal to produce capable and durable equipment for the harshest working environments.
Have you encountered the Euclid-Hitachi EH700-3 in action? Share your observations and experiences below!