Hovmand: A smart approach to ergonomic server lifting

As data centres continue to evolve, the equipment inside the centres is becoming larger, heavier, and more complex. High-density servers, battery systems and advanced rack infrastructure demand more than traditional manual handling methods. That is why Hovmand has developed a dedicated range of lifting solutions specifically engineered for modern data centre environments.

With more than 54,000 battery-powered lifters delivered globally, Hovmand is helping operators improve safety, uptime, and efficiency through ergonomic lifting solutions tailored to server rooms.

Cloud Lifters: Designed for Data Centre Requirements 

Hovmand’s Cloud Lifters are designed specifically to meet these requirements. The lifting solutions feature slim profiles for easy manoeuvrability, smooth electric lifting for precise positioning, and configurable platforms that support safe installation and removal of servers and batteries.

Data centres present unique operational challenges:

• Narrow aisles between racks
• Heavy servers and battery modules
• Critical uptime requirements
• ESD-sensitive equipment
• Precision installation needs

Unlike generic lifting equipment, Hovmand’s Cloud Lifters are engineered around rack environments and technical workflows. Specialised leg sets allow operation in tight spaces, while sliding platforms enable easier server extraction and positioning inside racks.

The server lifters can support installations from 1U to 60U rack heights and capacities from 70  kg to 300 kg.

And to improve safety all around, the Cloud lifters are all with ESD-protection.

This helps data centres:

• Reduce injury risks
• Minimise equipment damage
• Improve installation precision
• Maintain uptime during maintenance and upgrades
• Enable safe one-person operation

Explore Hovmand’s dedicated data centre solutions here: Hovmand Data Centre Solutions

Supporting Next-Generation Servers with safe operations

As server hardware is getting heavier due to scaling AI infrastructure, GPU clusters and highdensity systems become standard, some servers now weigh up to 300 kg, making manual  handling increasingly difficult, impractical, and unsafe. (iotinsider.com) 

According to Hovmand’s Business Development Manager for Data Centres, Oliver Bredgaard, the logistics surrounding how heavier equipment is handled are often only considered late in the process when data centres are being developed. As a result, many only start thinking about lifting equipment after damage has already occurred, either to personnel or to the equipment itself, or when the equipment has simply become so heavy that a single person on duty can no longer lift it without potentially affecting uptime. “

That is why it is important for us to spread awareness within the industry,” he says to IoT Insider and the Tech Show in London. 

Watch the interview here: IoT Insider Feature on Hovmand and Next-Gen Servers

Server Lift vs. Manual Handling for Rack Installation

Manual server installation increases both physical strain and operational risk. Heavy lifting inside confined spaces can lead to injuries, accidental drops, and damage to expensive equipment.

Cloud Lifters provide several important advantages over manual handling:

Manual Handling                               Cloud Lifters
High physical strain                             Ergonomic electric lifting
Increased injury risk                            Safer operator workflows
Difficult precision alignment                  Controlled positioning
Requires multiple technicians                Often one-person operation
Greater risk of equipment damage        Stable and secure handling
Slower installation process                    Improved efficiency

Wanna learn more about a smart server lift need to support the fast growing data centre industry?

Check out the full what, why, and how guide from Hovmand’s data centre specialist here.