About this Training
Aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) are vital for the safe storage of crude oil, refined products, and chemicals across the energy and process industries. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of API 653, which governs the inspection, repair, alteration, and reconstruction of aboveground storage tanks. Participants will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical guidance on compliance with international codes, inspection techniques, and maintenance strategies.
The course equips engineers and inspectors with the tools to evaluate the structural integrity of tanks, identify risks of corrosion and leaks, and apply safe repair methodologies. Emphasis is placed on understanding inspection intervals, fitness-for-service evaluations, and how to apply API 653 in conjunction with API 650 and API 620 standards.
Through real-world case studies and problem-solving exercises, attendees will develop the competence to oversee inspection programs, extend tank service life, and ensure safety while minimizing downtime. This training bridges the gap between regulations and field application, empowering professionals to make informed decisions in tank integrity management.
- Interpret the requirements and scope of API 653 in relation to API 650 and API 620.
- Conduct inspections to assess tank integrity, corrosion rates, and settlement.
- Evaluate repair, alteration, and reconstruction procedures in compliance with API 653.
- Apply best practices for safe tank operation, leak prevention, and spill control.
- Implement effective inspection programs to optimize tank lifecycle and regulatory compliance.
This course is designed for professionals involved in tank design, inspection, and maintenance across the oil & gas, petrochemical, chemical, and storage terminal sectors. Typical participants include: Tank Inspectors, Mechanical Engineers, Maintenance Engineers, Reliability Engineers, Operations Supervisors, HSE Officers, and Asset Integrity Managers. It is particularly valuable for personnel responsible for ensuring storage tank reliability, compliance with environmental regulations, and operational safety.
- Basic
- Intermediate
The course combines instructor-led presentations, interactive discussions, code interpretation exercises, and real-world case studies. Practical scenarios, sample inspection reports, and problem-solving workshops are included to reinforce learning and ensure direct application in the workplace.
Your expert course leader is a seasoned materials and corrosion engineer with extensive experience in process plant construction and maintenance. He has worked for prestigious organizations such as Shell Chemicals and Det Norske Veritas. He specializes in process piping and pressure vessel design, risk-based inspections, and corrosion failure analysis. He has been conducting professional training courses since 2005, making him an authority on ASME and API standards.
Unlock the potential of your workforce with customized in-house training programs designed specifically for the energy sector. Our tailored, in-house courses not only enhance employee skills and engagement but also offer significant cost savings by eliminating travel expenses. Invest in your team’s success and achieve specific outcomes aligned with your organization’s goals through our expert training solutions. Request for further information regarding our on-site or in-house training opportunities.
In our ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, we will no longer providing hard copy training materials. Instead, all training content and resources will be delivered in digital format. Inspired by the oil and energy industry’s best practices, we are leveraging on digital technologies to reduce waste, lower our carbon emissions, ensuring our training content is always up-to-date and accessible. Click here to learn more.
To further optimise your learning experience from our courses, we also offer individualized “One to One” coaching support for 2 hours post training. We can help improve your competence in your chosen area of interest, based on your learning needs and available hours. This is a great opportunity to improve your capability and confidence in a particular area of expertise. It will be delivered over a secure video conference call by one of our senior trainers. They will work with you to create a tailor-made coaching program that will help you achieve your goals faster.
Request for further information post training support and fees applicable
Q1. What is API 653 and why is it important?
API 653 is the standard for inspection, repair, alteration, and reconstruction of aboveground storage tanks. It ensures tanks remain safe, structurally sound, and compliant with environmental regulations, making it essential for storage terminals, refineries, and midstream operations.
Q2. How often should aboveground storage tanks be inspected?
Inspection intervals depend on factors like tank age, service, and condition, but API 653 generally requires external inspections every 5 years and internal inspections every 10 years, unless risk assessments justify different intervals.
Q3. What are common problems found during tank inspections?
Typical issues include corrosion, pitting, weld cracking, settlement, foundation damage, and leakage. Early detection allows operators to repair defects before they compromise safety and environmental compliance.
Q4. How does API 653 relate to API 650 and API 620?
API 650 covers the design and construction of new tanks, API 620 addresses low-pressure tanks, and API 653 governs inspection and repair of tanks already in service. Together, they form a complete lifecycle standard for aboveground storage tanks.
Q5. What repair methods are allowed under API 653?
API 653 outlines procedures for welding, bottom replacement, shell patching, roof repairs, and nozzle modifications. Repairs must follow specific code requirements to maintain tank integrity and regulatory compliance.
Q6. What industries most commonly apply API 653?
The standard is widely used in oil and gas refineries, chemical plants, storage terminals, and power generation facilities—anywhere bulk liquids are stored in aboveground tanks.
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