Custom Upender for Server Rack Tilt Testing

Custom tilter enables safe, precise server rack tipping tests.

A leading data center operator needed a safe, repeatable way to test the tipping point of fully loaded server cabinets.

To meet internal safety standards and compliance requirements, they needed to:

• Determine the center of gravity (CG) of server racks
• Validate tipping angles greater than 10°
• Conduct testing across multiple axes
• Protect high-value equipment during controlled tip-over scenarios

Traditional testing methods were labor-intensive and posed risk to both equipment and personnel.

Autoquip, in partnership with dealer American Custom Lifts, delivered a custom-engineered upender (Pacman tilter) designed specifically for controlled tilt testing of server cabinets.

Using the equipment shown:

• The upender platform securely supports the server rack during testing
• A fixed hard stop at the base creates a controlled pivot point to simulate real-world tipping conditions
• A soft foam stop is integrated to safely catch and protect the cabinet after tip-over
• The system allows operators to incrementally tilt the load and precisely identify the tipping threshold

Testing Process:

• Server racks are loaded onto the rotator system after removing perimeter floor barriers
• Barriers are reinstalled to ensure operator safety during testing
• The upender tilts the rack until it reaches its tipping point
• Testing is repeated across multiple orientations to determine the true center of gravity

AQ Project#

173528

The custom upender provides the customer with:

• Accurate, repeatable CG measurement for server cabinets
• Confidence in meeting >10° tipping safety requirements
• Improved safety for both personnel and equipment
• A controlled and standardized testing process
• Reduced risk of product damage during validation

By replacing manual and inconsistent methods, the solution enables the data center to validate equipment stability with precision and confidence.