Proper oil storage tank maintenance and design are essential in the production and use of these tanks, as any tank failure could lead to devastating safety issues.
Tank designers and owners must prevent problems by designing and building according to API standards, undertaking routine oil storage tank inspections and providing regular, required maintenance.
What is the Role of the API?
The American Petroleum Institute (API) sets various design standards that are government regulated to ensure manufacturer compliance.
It also documents various oil storage tank maintenance and inspection standards and requirements that oil storage tank services must adhere to.
Doing so prevents costly and dangerous accidents with these tanks.
Though API standards vary depending on the shape, size, and use of the tank, they are always enforced to ensure that tanks are designed, constructed, installed, and used in a safe manner.
Fulfill API Standards with Owner Participation in Tank Design and Building
In doing so, API recommends that tank owners participate in the design and building process so they are aware of what is going on during fabrication, including the materials being used and the fabricator’s adherence to API standards regarding welding, ultrasonic testing, and vacuum testing of the weld seams.
A fully fabricated and installed tank should then undergo a final oil storage tank inspection and pneumatic test to ensure no leaks are present prior to putting the tank into service.
API Compliance Is with Owner Once Tank Is Built and Delivered
Once a tank is put into operation, the responsibility for API standards compliance goes fully into the hands of the tank owner.
Compliance can be maintained by arranging for regular oil storage tank maintenance and periodic oil storage tank inspections as required for that tank.
Everything from tank function and condition to its foundation and the presence of corrosion on the interior or exterior of the tank are considered in these inspections in order to keep oil storage tanks operating safely.
Any tanks found by oil storage tank services to no longer comply must obviously receive the repairs necessary to put them back into compliance.
Compliance With API Standards Is Crucial
API standards for oil storage tank design, fabrication, maintenance, and inspection are crucial regulations that promote the longevity and safe operation of every tank out there.
Tank owners should protect their ability to be compliant by first working with designers and fabricators who work according to these standards and then assuming the responsibility to maintain API standard compliance by providing necessary oil storage tank inspections and maintenance.
Well-designed, compliant tanks are safer and more cost-effective in the long run as well as less likely to develop problems that result in accidents and expensive repairs.