API & STI INSPECTIONS
ABOVE GROUND TANK INSPECTION
Our Technicians are highly trained inspectors who hold certifications from the American Petroleum Institute (API), the Steel Tank Institute (STI) and the National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE) in fulfilling all of your aboveground storage tank inspections, (AST) needs. Additionally, we are able to aid in the removal of tanks and materials that have been determined compromised; providing you with solutions every step of the way.
ULTRASONIC TESTING
A common method in the industry used to determine the structural integrity of a surface material is Ultrasonic Testing (UT). Our personnel often use this NDT method to examine the AST’s floor and wall integrity. These carefully made measurements are then carried over into the reports provided to the tank owner. For our clients to know exactly how their tank is holding up to the outside elements, as well as, the products contained within, is our top priority as an industry service provider.
MAGNETIC PARTICLE TESTING
Magnetic Particle testing (MPT), also known as magnaflux inspection is a method for detecting laps, seams, cracks, pits, voids subsurface holes and other discontinuities within ferro-magnetic materials (Iron and steel). This technique is often used by our “Tanknicians” to determine the structual integrity around welds, bilet and cast materials in and around piping and the tank itself.
VACUUM BOX TESTING
Vacuum Box Testing (VBT) is a non-destructive test used when trying to locate weld seam leaks. A vacuum box and a compressor create a high or low pressure vacuum while a detergent solution is applied to the test area. The detergent bubbles, making leaks visible within the created pressure envelope.
IS YOUR TANK DUE FOR AN INSPECTION? Q/A
WHAT KIND OF TANK DO I HAVE?
- Above ground storage tanks (AST) can be classified in several different ways ranging from purpose, size location. Common types of ASTs are: Field Erected and Shop Fabricated
- To determine the specifics of your tank, we recommend locating the identification tag. *However, this will not apply to all tanks.*
- Once locating this tag, we offer a free identification service that will help you determine if your tank is in need of service, if it is, we will also provide a free quote at no charge.
WHAT KIND OF INSPECTION DO I NEED?
Inspection, STI SP001: All configurations of shop-built tanks and smaller field-erected tanks.
- Built to UL 142, UL 2085 (thermal Insulation), API 12F (production liquids) or API 650, App. J (Oil storage).
- Welded metal AST fabricated in a manufacturing facility.
- Not otherwise identified as field-erected.
- Shop fabricated tanks are often built taller and skinner than Field erected tanks.
- Dimensions include: Capacity, OD, Height, and Connection details.
- Generally built to a volume of less than or equal to 75,000 gallons.
- ASTs storing flammable and combustible liquids at atmospheric pressure.
- AST storing other product following proper evaluation.
Shop-Built/Fabricated AST – Horizontal or Vertical, Single or - Double Walled.
- Steel Diked AST – Open or Closed.
- Concrete Exterior AST
- Can be Field-Erected AST – Limited Size
- Portable Containers – Drums, Totes (IBCs) – Plastic, Steel, Stainless
- Manufacturer Tank Plate
- Tank generally have Lifting Lugs
Inspection, API 653: Field-erected tanks (welded or riveted). Also includes guidance for repair, alteration, relocation.
- Greater than 75,000 gallons
- Can be greater than 50 feet maximum height
- Can be greater than 30 feet maximum diameter
- Manufacturer Tank Plate
- Standard Certification Plate
- No finite limit to Capacity
- No Lifting Lugs
- Rounded Stairway
- Tank Specifications
- Owner purchase and maintenance records should be tracked