Precision Lifting Solution for Data Center Cooling Systems

Air-Hydraulic High Capacity Scissor lifts for Data Center Cooling Demands

With the rapid rise of artificial intelligence, data centers across the U.S. are being constructed at an unprecedented pace to handle massive processing power. This increase in computing capacity generates extreme heat loads, requiring large-scale cooling systems to regulate temperatures and ensure reliable operation.

The challenge for this project was to develop non-electrically operated lifts to raise 40-foot-long, 20,000 lbs. pounds cooling pipe racks 12’ high while being able to precisely move into place with only a few men.

The customer required non-electrically operated lifting solutions capable of:

• Raising massive cooling racks safely to 120” (10 feet).
• Maintaining synchronization within ¼ inch across multiple lifts during operation.
• Minimizing floor loading pressure compared to forklift methods.
• Allowing precise, controlled positioning by only a few operators.

Autoquip engineered a custom air-over-hydraulic scissor lift systems specifically for the project’s demands.

Key features include:

Air Bearing Casters: Enable the lift to “float” into exact position for mounting, dramatically reducing floor pressure and ensuring mobility within the facility.

Synchronized Control System: Five lifts operate in tandem with precise controls, maintaining elevation alignment within ¼” to protect delicate electrical bus bar connections.

High Capacity & High Travel: Each lift is designed to raise 20,000 lbs to a working height of 120” (10 feet) with smooth, controlled travel.

Non-Electrical Operation: The air-over-hydraulic design meets facility requirements for safety and reliability while reducing power dependency during installation.

AQ Project#

168764

• Safe & Efficient Application: Enabled accurate placement of oversized cooling racks with minimal manpower.
• Floor Protection: Air bearing technology kept point loading pressures well below forklift thresholds.
• Precision & Reliability: Maintained critical alignment across all racks, preventing costly damage to sensitive electrical infrastructure.
• Scalable Application: This solution is now being applied across multiple lifts for large-scale data center builds.