API 653 : Tank Inspection, Repair Alteration and Reconstruction (API Exam Preparation Training)

About the Course

The API 653: Tank Inspection, Repair Alteration, and Reconstruction training course is designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively inspect, repair, alter, and reconstruct aboveground storage tanks) in compliance with the American Petroleum Institute's standards. It explores the intricate details of API Standard 653, which governs the maintenance and inspection of tanks to ensure their safe and efficient operation. Delegates will gain a thorough understanding of the principles of tank design, construction, and operation, with a strong emphasis on safety and regulatory compliance. It covers a wide range of topics, including corrosion mechanisms, non-destructive examination (NDE) techniques, welding practices, and the critical aspects of inspection processes. Detailed instruction on evaluating tank integrity, understanding inspection intervals, and implementing effective repair strategies ensures that delegates can make informed decisions and uphold industry best practices.

Interactive training sessions, case studies, and practical exercises reinforce learning and provide hands-on experience. Delegates will also receive guidance on navigating the complexities of API 653 certification, preparing them for the computer-based examination and subsequent professional application of their skills. They will be well-equipped to enhance the safety, reliability, and longevity of above ground storage tanks, contributing to overall operational excellence within the petroleum industry.

Core Objectives

The delegates will achieve the following objectives:

• Gain a thorough understanding of the API 653 standards, guidelines, and protocols
• Learn about various tank components, their functions, and their importance in the inspection process
• Develop the ability to interpret and explain API 653 standards in real-world scenarios
• Understand the comprehensive processes involved in the inspection, repair, alteration, and reconstruction of tanks
• Apply the learned standards and guidelines to practical inspection tasks
• Perform inspection procedures accurately based on API 653 criteria
• Analyse tank conditions and identify potential issues or areas needing repair or alteration
• Develop skills to identify and assess problems during tank inspections systematically
• Integrate various concepts from the course to form a cohesive understanding of tank inspection and management
• Create effective inspection plans that adhere to API 653 standards and ensure tank safety and reliability
• Evaluate the quality and effectiveness of inspections performed, ensuring they meet API 653 standards
• Make informed decisions regarding the repair, alteration, and reconstruction of tanks based on thorough evaluation and analysis

Training Approach

This is an in-depth 35-hour, 5-day training program, each comprising seven (7) training hours of instruction. It aims to achieve three (3) primary goals:

• Prepare individuals for the API 653 Tank Inspection Certification
• Equip delegates with a practical understanding of the complexities encountered in the field
• Boosting their confidence in decision-making

At the conclusion of each section, quizzes are administered, and daily homework assignments consisting of 20 questions are distributed and reviewed at the start of the next day. A "practice" exam is conducted at the end of the program to reinforce the delegates' learning experience.

The Attendees

This training course is suitable for individuals involved in inspecting, repairing, altering, and reconstructing tanks. It is particularly beneficial for inspectors and inspection engineers seeking API 653 certification. Additionally, other engineers, managers, and technical staff working with tanks and tank farms will also find it highly valuable.

Likewise, it will be valuable to the professionals but not limited to the following:

• Storage Tank Inspectors & Engineers
• Plant Inspectors
• Inspection & Corrosion Engineers
• Process Engineers
• QA/QC Inspectors
• Maintenance & Mechanical Engineers
• Inspection Testing Engineers
• Fabrication Engineers
• Inspection Engineers for newly constructed and reconstructed tanks

Daily Discussion

DAY ONE: API 653

• Introduction and Review of API 653 Body of Knowledge (BOK)
• Scope and Definitions 
• Suitability of Service
• Brittle Fracture Considerations
• Inspection
• Materials
• Design Considerations for Reconstructed Tanks
• Tank Repair and Alteration

DAY TWO: API 653 AND API 575  

• API 575 Scope and Definitions
• API 575. Section 3: Selected Nondestructive Examination (NDE)
• API 575. Section 4: Subtopic: Types of Storage Tanks 
• API 574. Sections 5, 6, and 7: Reasons for Inspection and Inspection Scheduling, Frequency of Inspection, and Methods of Inspection 
• API 653. Section 10: Dismantling and Reconstruction
• API 653. Section 11: Welding
• API 653. Section 12: Examination
• API 653. Section 13: Marking and Recordkeeping
• Annexes related to the Body of Knowledge (BOK)

DAY THREE: API 650 AND API 576

• API 650. Section 1: Scope 
• API 650. Section 2: Materials
• API 650. Section 3: Design
• API 650. Sections 4 and 5: Fabrication and Erection 
• API 650. Section 6: Methods of Inspecting Joints 
• API 650. Section 7: Welding Procedure and Welders Qualification 
• API 650. Section 8: Marking
• Annexes related to the Body of Knowledge (BOK)
• API 576: Weight-loaded Pressure-/Vacuum- Relief Valve 
• API 576: General Damage Mechanisms 

DAY FOUR: ASME IX AND API 577

• ASME IX and API 577. Section 7 and 8: PQR and WPS Requirements 
• ASME IX and API 577. Section 7: Welder Qualifications
• API 577. Section 1 and 2: Scope and Definitions
• API 577. Section 4: Welding Inspection
• API 577. Section 5: Welding Processes 
• API 577. Section 11: Refinery and Petrochemical Plant Welding Issues 
• API 577 Annex A Terminology and Symbols 

DAY FIVE: ASME V, API 571, API 651, AND API 652

• ASME V: Nondestructive Test Methods
• API 571. Section 1 and Section 4: Scope and General Damage Mechanisms
• API 571. Section 5: Refining Industry Damage Mechanisms
• API 651. Sections 1 and 3: Scope and Definitions
• API 651. Sections 6 and 7: Determination of Need for Cathodic Protection Control and Design 
• API 651. Sections 8, 9, and 10: Design and the Criteria for Cathodic Protection and Interference Currents
• API 652. Sections 1 and 3: Introduction and Definitions 
• API 652. Sections 5 and 6: Determination for the Need of Tank Bottom Lining and the Selection
• API 652. Sections 7, 9, and 10: Surface Preparation, Inspection, and Repair
• Final Mock Examination