Program Overview

This intensive certification prepares inspectors to conduct comprehensive aboveground storage tank (AST) assessments using API 653 standards, with emphasis on reliability engineering and environmental risk mitigation. Participants will master inspection methodologies for corrosion control, structural integrity, and leak prevention to ensure regulatory compliance and operational safety.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, inspectors will be able to:

1. Perform API 653-compliant inspections (internal/external) for tanks storing hydrocarbons, chemicals, and hazardous liquids
2. Identify degradation mechanisms (corrosion, cracking, settlement) using advanced NDT techniques
3. Assess environmental risks (soil/water contamination, vapor emissions) and implement containment strategies
4. Calculate remaining service life using thickness measurements and corrosion rate analysis
5. Develop RBI (Risk-Based Inspection) plans aligned with API 580/581
6. Document findings for regulatory audits (EPA, OSHA, SPCC compliance)
7. Recommend repair/replacement strategies per API 653 Annex B

Who Should Attend?

✔ API-certified inspectors seeking 653 specialization
✔ Integrity engineers managing AST fleets
✔ Environmental compliance officers
✔ Tank maintenance supervisors
✔ NDT technicians expanding into storage tank inspection

Core Curriculum

Module 1: API 653 Standard Deep Dive

• Scope & applicability (including API 650 retrofits)
• Jurisdictional requirements (EPA 40 CFR 112, STI SP001)
• Inspector qualifications & ethics

Module 2: External Inspection Techniques

• Shell/bottom plate assessment (ultrasonic thickness mapping)
• Roof inspection (pontoon integrity, seal condition)
• Foundation evaluation (settlement, water intrusion)
• Corrosion under insulation (CUI) detection

Module 3: Internal Inspection Methodology

• Safe entry procedures (confined space/vapor testing)
• Floor scan techniques (MFL, AE testing)
• Shell corrosion pattern analysis
• Annular plate weld inspection

Module 4: Environmental Impact Assessment

• Secondary containment evaluation (dike integrity, liner condition)
• Leak detection systems (LDS) performance verification
• Vapor emission control inspection
• SPCC plan compliance checks

Module 5: Data Analysis & Reporting

• Remaining life calculations (Section 4 methodology)
• Fitness-for-service (FFS) assessments per API 579
• Inspection report writing (including RBI inputs)

Module 6: Repair & Alteration Oversight

• Hot tap & in-service welding review
• Bottom replacement procedures
• API 653 Annex B repair documentation

Module 7: Hands-On Field Simulation

• UT thickness measurement lab
• Visual inspection drill (identifying API 653 Fig. 10-1 defects)
• Inspection planning scenario workshop