Things to know about API 653 Inspection

Things to know about API 653 Inspection

Above ground storage tanks play a significant role in keeping industries and businesses up and running. However, maintaining these tanks and containers is a huge responsibility. Robust tank inspection and upkeep strategy allow one to identify possible tank contamination or wear and tear. Adopting proactive measures will also help in keeping your assets persevered and functional for a long time. API tank inspection is one such tank inspection and maintenance program.

In this post, we will discuss API 653 inspection and various aspects associated with it.

Understanding API 653 Inspection

Tanks built according to the standards of American Petroleum Institute or API 650 should be inspected and examined under API 653 inspection codes. Although API 653 inspections and repairs are based on API 650 standards, they can be applied to inspect and review any other steel tank. If you own or manage above ground storage tanks, you should have adequate knowledge about API tank inspection regulations.

The API 653 tank inspection regulations are applied to various parts of the tank, including foundation, structure, shell, bottom, roof, tank accessories, nozzles, etc.

How frequently should you inspect aboveground storage tanks? 

There are various factors that one needs to consider when determining the frequency of the storage tank inspection. Some of these factors are the nature of the storage tank and the product stored. However, some major tank inspection factors include corrosion, federal or state law requirements, and reports of visual maintenance checks.

Speaking of API 653 inspection intervals, here are some general rules,

Monthly routine in-service inspection: Every month, in-service tank inspection must be conducted to examine the tanks’ external condition. Since tank inspection requires skill and certification, one should call only professional API inspection companies. Visual monitoring allows tank inspectors to analyze the integrity of the tank and check for …

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