Ground Level Displays

MCG 1350M

Full gauge access at ground level.

What It Is & How It Works

A ground level display is an explosion-proof enclosure that mirrors the full graphical interface of a tank-mounted gauge or transmitter at an accessible location, typically at the base of the tank or on a nearby structure. Rather than climbing to the tank roof to read measurements or configure instruments, operators interact with the same screen, menus, and diagnostics from eye level.

The display connects to the host gauge or transmitter through a standard cable run and draws both power and data from the host device. It presents real-time level readings, alarm status, and diagnostic information on a graphical LCD. Infrared programming allows technicians to calibrate gauges, adjust parameters, and run diagnostics without opening the explosion-proof enclosure, maintaining the integrity of the hazardous-area rating throughout the interaction.

Installation involves mounting the display enclosure at eye level using a U-bolt or bracket, running the cable from the gauge, and connecting. Heater options support cold-climate installations, and extended-distance wiring configurations accommodate cable runs across large tank farms. The MCG 1350M is rated for Class I Division 1 (Groups B, C, and D), Class II (Groups E, F, and G), Class III, and ATEX Zone 1 environments.

One distinction newcomers should understand: a ground level display is not a passive level indicator. It provides the complete interface of the host instrument, including full programming, calibration, and diagnostic capability, making it an operational tool rather than simply a remote readout.

Ground Level Display vs. Touch Panel

Both provide tank data without climbing, but they serve different system roles. A ground level display mirrors a single gauge’s interface for local access, calibration, and diagnostics at that tank. A touch panel aggregates data from multiple tanks and field devices into a centralized operator station with alarm handling, trending, and multi-tank views. Choose a ground level display for hands-on gauge interaction at individual tanks. Choose a touch panel when operators need a multi-tank overview from a central location and compliance with API 2350 level alarms.

When to Choose a Ground Level Display

Ground level displays are specified when operators need frequent, safe access to gauge data and configuration:

Tank Farms and Terminals Facilities with multiple tanks where routine level verification, diagnostics, and calibration must happen without climbing each structure.
Custody-Transfer and Inventory Tanks Applications under OIML R85 or API MPMS where calibration verification must be frequent, reliable, and documented.
Hazardous and Classified Locations Class I Division 1, ATEX Zone 1, and similar environments where minimizing personnel time on tank roofs reduces exposure and risk.
Cold-Weather and High-Wind Sites Locations where climbing tanks is impractical or unsafe for extended periods due to environmental conditions.
Retrofit and Modernization Projects Adding accessible digital interaction to existing gauge installations without replacing instruments or modifying tank penetrations.

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MCG 1350M

Why It Excels

Facilities Requiring Frequent Calibration and Diagnostics

Full programming and calibration capability at ground level eliminates the need to climb for routine instrument maintenance.

Multi-Tank Operations with Tight Turnaround Schedules

Operators can verify level, status, and alarms across many tanks without the time cost of climbing each one.

Sites with Fall-Protection or Confined-Space Constraints

Removes the most common reason for tank climbs, directly reducing permit requirements and exposure hours.

Hazardous Environments Where Enclosure Integrity Matters

Infrared communication allows full interaction without breaking the explosion-proof seal.

What to Consider Alongside Ground Level Displays

Consider an alternative when:

You need centralized visibility across dozens of tanks from a single operator station. See Touch Panels or Field Interface Devices & RTUs.
You need automated inventory reporting, volume corrections, or compliance records beyond what local gauge interaction provides. See FuelsManager®.
You need only high-level alarm indication at ground level, not full gauge access. See Level Alarms.

How Ground Level Displays Fit Into a Larger System

Pair with servo gauges, radar gauges, or other level measurement products as the field-level access point for calibration, diagnostics, and local level verification at each tank. See Servo Level Gauges and Radar Level Gauges.
Pair with FuelsManager® for a complete architecture where ground level displays handle local operator interaction at the tank while FuelsManager provides centralized inventory, alarm management, and compliance reporting across the entire tank farm. See FuelsManager®.