API – 653: Storage Tank Inspection

Regardless of the tank, structures and their components degrade over time, increasing the likelihood of structural failure. Because of this deterioration, inspections should be performed at specified intervals throughout the service life of the tank. These inspections utilize non-destructive and visual inspections to provide thorough insight into the structural integrity of the tank and its components and are necessary to reduce the potential for hazardous releases to the environment. Enables preventative maintenance. 

EMIS is one of the leading inspection and certification bodies for Above Ground Storage Tanks (AST) inspection. EMIS strictly adheres to the American Petroleum Institute’s API 650 and API 653 standards to provide the highest quality inspection and verification for safe, uninterrupted operation of your storage tanks. Dome or floating tanks, cryogenic and special designs subject to API or other reputable certification bodies can be tested and certified according to full international standards.

Typical AST inspection and verification programs comply both with API and statutory requirements and will normally include the following test:

  • API 653 Inspector verification
  • Tank Floor corrosion scanning by MFL
  • Tank Floor thickness verification by UTM
  • Tank Floor laser alignment for settling
  • Tank Floor leak testing by Vacuum box and MT
  • Tank structure and foundation survey
  • Tank Shell inspection by UTM
  • Tank Shell survey by Rope Access certified inspectors
  • Tank Shell survey by laser and theodolite
  • Tank shell banding, peaking and ovality verification
  • Tank Roof visual and thickness testing by UTM
  • Floating roof, seal and pontoon verification
  • Tank coils and drains hydro testing

Yearly, 5 yearly, 10 yearly and RBI based inspection intervals allow for accurate and specific AST follow-up and certification to comply with all client’s requirements for safe and predictable operation of the storage tank. EMIS employs several API 653 certified inspectors and certifies big number of AST’s every year, while maintaining the most advanced inspection/survey systems and inspector training, to conduct inspection and certifications to the highest standard.