COURSE OVERVIEW:

Atmospheric storage tanks are vital assets in the midstream and downstream sectors, yet they present unique challenges due to their large scale and susceptibility to environmental degradation. This course provides a comprehensive practical guide to the lifecycle management of these structures, focusing on the synergy between the API 650 (Design) and API 653 (In-Service) standards. Participants will move beyond theoretical concepts to understand the physical realities of tank settlement, floor corrosion, and structural stability.

The curriculum is designed to provide a 360-degree view of tank integrity, starting from the foundation and moving through the shell to the roof and venting systems. Special emphasis is placed on identifying the subtle signs of "bottom-side" corrosion and the mechanical stresses caused by uniform and non-planar settlement. By integrating modern inspection technologies such as Magnetic Flux Leakage (MFL) and Robotic crawlers, attendees will learn how to accurately assess the condition of a tank without unnecessary downtime.

Coverage includes detailed methodologies for executing repairs, including shell patch plates, floor replacements, and nozzle modifications. The course also addresses the critical role of secondary containment and leak detection in meeting environmental compliance. By the end of this program, professionals will be equipped to develop robust maintenance schedules that prioritize safety, minimize the risk of catastrophic spills, and extend the functional life of their storage infrastructure.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

1.  Explain the fundamental design principles of API 650 for new tank construction.

2.  Navigate the API 653 standard for the inspection and repair of existing tanks.

3.  Identify various types of tank settlement and calculate their structural impact.

4.  Utilize MFL scanning data to evaluate the integrity of tank floors.

5.  Determine the minimum required thickness for tank shells based on hydrostatic loads.

6.  Evaluate the suitability of floating roof seals and drainage systems.

7.  Design repair procedures for shell thinning and localized pitting.

8.  Assess the risk of brittle fracture for tanks operating in cold climates.

9.  Implement effective leak detection and secondary containment strategies.

10.  Manage the cleaning and degassing process for internal tank inspections.

11.  Select appropriate coating systems for internal and external protection.

12.  Calculate remaining life and determine optimal inspection frequencies.

13.  Prepare detailed inspection reports that comply with regulatory requirements.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

This course is intended for plant inspectors, maintenance engineers, tank farm supervisors, and asset integrity managers responsible for the upkeep of storage facilities.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximise the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

The National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants who complete a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.