MCG 1090 — Level Alarm Probe

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Overview

MCG 1090

Tank farm operators, refinery engineers, chemical plant supervisors, terminal automation teams, and EPC specifiers rely on accurate, fail-safe high-level alarms to prevent spills and maintain compliance. The MCG 1090 Level Alarm Probe delivers proven, field-tested overfill protection using a unique, true self-test mechanism that physically moves the displacer each time the system is tested—verifying both the mechanical action and electrical signaling. This ensures the alarm will perform during real high-level conditions, not just simulated ones.

Designed for hazardous-area service, the MCG 1090 offers remote test capability, multiplexed communication for up to 128 probes, and rugged stainless-steel construction for long-term reliability. Whether deployed as a standalone alarm or integrated with the MCG 7030 Touch Panel Alarm Monitor, the 1090 helps facilities reduce wiring costs, improve safety, simplify testing routines, and maintain dependable alarm readiness in the toughest tank environments.

Features

True Mechanical Self-Test

Physically lifts the displacer to validate full mechanical and electrical functionality—eliminating silent failures and ensuring real-world alarm performance.

Explosion-Proof Safety

UL and ATEX flameproof housings meet global hazardous-area requirements for petroleum, chemical, and solvent storage.

Remote Verification

Optional remote self-testing from tank-side panels or the control room reduces field labor and encourages more frequent, reliable test cycles.

Multiplexed Wiring Architecture

Connect up to 128 probes on a single Tankway loop, reducing wiring by as much as 80% compared to individually wired devices.

Rugged Brushless Design

Rugged, Corrosion-Resistant Construction

304 stainless steel housing and durable displacer materials deliver long service life, even in corrosive or idle tank environments.

Flexible Alarm Configurations

Supports Hi, Hi-Hi, and Lo alarms with NO/NC contacts or digital Tankway communication, adapting easily to diverse overfill protection architectures.

Details

The MCG 1090 uses a robust displacer and magnetic switch mechanism to provide reliable point-level detection for high-, high-high-, or low-level alarms. Its true self-testing system is what sets it apart: instead of electronically simulating a test signal, the probe physically raises the displacer each time a test is initiated. This fully validates both the mechanical action and the electrical output path, ensuring that the alarm will operate correctly during actual process conditions.

For facilities where access is limited or hazardous, the 1090 supports remote testing from tank-side or the control room when paired with the MCG 7030 Touch Panel Alarm Monitor. Multiplexing up to 128 probes on a single Tankway communication loop dramatically reduces installation costs, especially in large tank farms.

Compact and robust, the MCG 1090 integrates seamlessly with Cognesense overfill protection systems, allowing operators to combine mechanical reliability, automated testing, and digital alarm reporting in a single platform.

Applications

  • Overfill Protection: Independent Hi or Hi-Hi alarms for spill prevention, API-2350 compliance, and fire-code-driven requirements.
  • Pump & Valve Shutdown: Provides reliable switching for pump shutdown or valve actuation during abnormal level conditions.
  • Hazardous Storage Tanks: Certified explosion-proof design ideal for petroleum products, chemicals, and other regulated materials.
  • Remote-Test Installations: Enables regular remote verification in tanks with poor access, high platforms, or classified hazardous areas.
  • Emergency Shutdown Systems: Serves as an independent alarm input for high-integrity protection levels and SIF architectures.
  • Idle or Seasonal Tanks: Physical self-testing ensures alarm readiness even after long periods without tank movement.

Documents and Downloads

Product Flyer

Have a look at the flyer to get all the tech specs and product features. Brochure

User Manual

Read the manual for detailed information and instructions. Manual

Calibrations

Check out a sample cert from our calibration lab. Certificate

Contact Support

If you have a question that we have not covered then just get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.

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FAQs

We have tried to answer the most common questions we are asked here.

Yes. The MCG 1090 physically moves the displacer during every test, confirming mechanical motion and electrical switching end-to-end—not just electronics simulation.
Absolutely. When paired with the MCG 7030 Touch Panel Alarm Monitor or Tankway wiring, tests can be triggered remotely from tank-side or the control room.
Up to 128 probes can be connected on a single Tankway loop, reducing total wiring cost and simplifying installation.
Yes. It carries UL Explosion-Proof and ATEX flameproof approvals for use in Class I, Div. 1 environments and Zone 1/2 areas.
Hi, Hi-Hi, and Lo alarms are available with NO/NC contact outputs or digital Tankway signaling.
Standard nylon displacers are offered, with additional materials available depending on specific gravity and chemical compatibility requirements.