{"id":2530,"date":"2024-10-01T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2023-11-22T03:32:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.petrosync.com\/blog\/?p=2530"},"modified":"2025-07-07T14:12:24","modified_gmt":"2025-07-07T07:12:24","slug":"api-653-body-of-knowledge","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.petrosync.com\/blog\/api-653-body-of-knowledge\/","title":{"rendered":"API 653 Body of Knowledge: Key Concepts for Tank Engineers"},"content":{"rendered":"
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In the realm of tank engineering, the API 653 Body of Knowledge<\/a> stands as a foundation of expertise. This thorough guide covers a diverse range of subjects, equipping tank engineers with the essential abilities and insights required for success in their profession. In this article, we will explore the fundamental ideas outlined in the API 653<\/a> Body of Knowledge, delivering a wealth of valuable information, expert perspectives, and responses to common queries.<\/p>\n

What Is API 653 Body of Knowledge?<\/b><\/h2>\n

The API 653 exam body of knowledge is like a detailed roadmap that tells you what you need to know to pass the API 653 certification<\/a> exam. It covers topics like tank inspection<\/a>, repair, alterations, safety, and environmental protection. This body of knowledge is the foundation for the questions you’ll encounter on the exam, so studying it well is the key to success.<\/p>\n

What Publications Are Mentioned in API 653 Body of Knowledge?<\/b><\/h2>\n

The API 653 Body of Knowledge refers to several publications that are integral to the understanding and application of API 653 standards. These publications include:<\/p>\n

1. API Recommended Practice 571<\/b><\/h3>\n

The API 571<\/a> standard plays a crucial role in understanding the potential damage mechanisms that can impact fixed equipment, such as storage tanks, within the refining industry. It’s all about identifying and managing these damage mechanisms<\/a> to ensure the safety and integrity of the equipment. This is a cornerstone for maintaining equipment reliability and the safety of operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Section 2 Terms and Definitions<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
3.8<\/td>\nAtmospheric Corrosion<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
3.11<\/td>\nBrittle Fracture<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
3.14<\/td>\nCaustic Corrosion<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
3.15<\/td>\nCaustic Stress Corrosion Cracking (Caustic Embrittlement)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
3.17<\/td>\nChloride Stress Corrosion Cracking<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
3.22<\/td>\nCorrosion Under insulation (CUI)<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
3.43<\/td>\nMechanical Fatigue (Including Vibration-induced Fatigue)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
3.45<\/td>\nMicrobiologically Influenced Corrosion (MIC)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
3.57<\/td>\nSoil Corrosion<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
3.58<\/td>\nSour Water Corrosion (Acidic)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
3.62<\/td>\nSulfuric Acid Corrosion<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

 <\/p>\n

2. API Recommended Practice 575<\/b><\/h3>\n

API RP 575 is your go-to guide for inspecting tanks operating under atmospheric and low-pressure conditions. The key focus here is safety and compliance. By adhering to this standard, you can ensure that tanks are inspected correctly, which is essential to prevent issues and maintain the reliability of these critical storage facilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
1.<\/td>\nTypes of tanks covered<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
2.<\/td>\nProcedures to perform internal and external inspection<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
3.<\/td>\nThe types of external and internal inspections<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
4.<\/td>\nProcedures to determine suitability for continued service<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
5.<\/td>\nEvaluation of change-of-service effects on suitability for continued service<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
6.<\/td>\nEvaluation and general condition<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

 <\/p>\n

3. API Recommended Practice 576<\/b><\/h3>\n

While its primary focus is on pressure-relieving devices, API RP 576, within the context of API 653, homes in specific sections related to their inspection. The highlight here is ensuring that pressure-relieving devices are functioning correctly, a vital aspect of tank safety. Proper inspection of these devices is essential to maintain the safety of storage tanks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
1. Safety Relief Valve (API RP 576, 4.3.2)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
2. Inspection, Testing, Maintenance, and Setting of Weight-loaded Pressure and\/or Vacuum Vents on Tanks (API RP 576, 6.6)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

 <\/p>\n

\"API<\/a><\/h3>\n

4. API Recommended Practice 577<\/b><\/h3>\n

This standard is all about welding, especially in the context of storage tanks. It covers welding processes, inspections, and metallurgy. Its significance lies in ensuring that tank welding is done correctly, which is critical for the structural integrity of the tanks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
1.<\/td>\nDefinitions<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
2.<\/td>\nWelding inspection<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
3.<\/td>\nWelding processes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
4.<\/td>\nWelding procedure<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
5.<\/td>\nWelding materials<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
6.<\/td>\nWelder qualifications<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
7.<\/td>\nNon-destructive examination<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
8.<\/td>\nMetallurgy<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
9.<\/td>\nRefinery and Petrochemical Plant Welding Issues<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
10.<\/td>\nTerminology and symbols<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
11.<\/td>\nActions to address improperly made production welds<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
12.<\/td>\nWelding procedure review<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
13.<\/td>\nGuide to common filler metal selection<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
14.<\/td>\nExample report of RT results<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

 <\/p>\n

5. API Standard 650<\/b><\/h3>\n

API 650 provides comprehensive guidelines for the design, fabrication, and construction of welded steel tanks used for oil storage. It sets the industry standard for the construction of oil storage tanks, ensuring their reliability. Following these guidelines is essential to maintain the safety and effectiveness of these vital storage facilities.<\/p>\n

6. API Recommended Practice 651<\/b><\/h3>\n

Focusing on the safeguarding of aboveground petroleum storage tanks from corrosion, API RP 651 is centered around cathodic protection systems. Its highlight is ensuring that tanks are protected against corrosion, which not only preserves the tanks but also safeguards the substances they contain and the environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n
Note: Only Sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, and 11 will be covered on the exam<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n

A. The inspector should have a practical understanding and be familiar with the information contained in API RP 651 related to:<\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Corrosion of Aboveground Steel Storage Tanks<\/li>\n
  2. Determination of Need for Cathodic Protection<\/li>\n
  3. Methods of Cathodic Protection for Corrosion Control<\/li>\n
  4. Operation and Maintenance of Cathodic Protection Systems<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n

B. Information contained in API RP 651 which the inspector will not be examined:<\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Design of cathodic protection systems<\/li>\n
  2. Sources, detection, and control of interference currents<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

     <\/p>\n

    7. API Recommended Practice 652<\/b><\/h3>\n

    API RP 652 guides the lining of tank bottoms to prevent corrosion and contamination, particularly in aboveground petroleum storage tanks. The standard is instrumental in protecting tank bottoms, reducing the risk of leaks, and environmental damage, and ensuring the longevity of the tanks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
    The inspector should have a practical understanding and be familiar with the information contained in API RP 652 related to:<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    \n
      \n
    1. Types of tank bottom linings and advantages and disadvantages of each<\/li>\n
    2. Considerations for recommending tank bottom linings<\/li>\n
    3. Causes of tank bottom lining failures<\/li>\n
    4. Types of tank bottom lining materials<\/li>\n
    5. Surface preparation requirements for the installation of tank bottom linings<\/li>\n
    6. Issues affecting the application of a tank bottom lining<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

       <\/p>\n

      8. API Standard 653<\/b><\/h3>\n

      API 653 serves as the primary standard for the inspection, repair, alteration, and reconstruction of aboveground storage tanks. Its significance is immense, as it provides a comprehensive framework for ensuring the safety and longevity of storage tanks, making it indispensable for those responsible for these critical facilities.<\/p>\n

      9. ASME Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code<\/b><\/h3>\n

      This code is all about the construction and inspection of pressure vessels, including those used in the oil and gas industry. The highlight here is that it establishes industry standards for the safe construction and inspection of pressure vessels. Given their close association with storage tanks, compliance with this code is fundamental to overall safety and reliability in the industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
      \n

      Section V:<\/p>\n

      Nondestructive Examination<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

      Article 1<\/td>\nGeneral Requirements<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Article 2<\/td>\nRadiographic Examination<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Article 6<\/td>\nLiquid Penetrant Examination, Including Mandatory Appendix II<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Article 7<\/td>\nMagnetic Particle Examination (Yoke and Prod techniques only, excluding paragraphs T-765 and T-766)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Article 23<\/td>\nUltrasonic Standards, Section SE\u2013797 only \u2013 Standard practice for measuring thickness by manual ultrasonic pulse-echo contact method<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      API 650 and API 653<\/td>\n\n

      General nondestructive examination requirements<\/p>\n

        \n
      • API Standard 650: The inspector should be familiar with and understand the general rules for NDE in API 650, Section 8. 2.<\/li>\n
      • API Standard 653: The inspector should be familiar with and understand the general rules for NDE in API 653, Section 12<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      \n

      Section IX:<\/p>\n

      Qualification Standard for Welding, Brazing, and Fusing Procedures; Welders; Brazers; and Welding, Brazing and Fusing Operators<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

      <\/td>\nThe inspector should have the knowledge and skills required to review a Welding Procedure Specification, Procedure Qualification Record, and Welder Performance Qualification.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      The inspector should know that the WPS must reference the applicable PQR and that the PQR must be signed and dated.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

       <\/p>\n

      What Topics Are Mentioned in API 653 Body of Knowledge?<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
      \n

      CALCULATIONS & TABULAR EVALUATIONS FOR EVALUATING THICKNESS MEASUREMENTS, WELD SIZES, AND TANK INTEGRITY<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

      1.<\/td>\nCORROSION RATES AND INSPECTION INTERVALS (API 575, 7.1 & 7.2)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      2.<\/td>\nJOINT EFFICIENCIES (API 653)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      3.<\/td>\nMAXIMUM FILL HEIGHT (HYDROSTATIC TESTING) – (API 653)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      4.<\/td>\nWELD SIZES FOR SHELL & ROOF OPENINGS (API 650 & API 653)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      5.<\/td>\nHOT TAPPING (API 653)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      6.<\/td>\nSETTLEMENT EVALUATION (API 653)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      7.<\/td>\nNUMBER OF SETTLEMENT POINTS (API 653)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      8.<\/td>\nIMPACT TESTING (API 650)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      9.<\/td>\nEXISTING TANK SHELL – MINIMUM THICKNESS (API 653)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      10.<\/td>\nRECONSTRUCTED TANK SHELL – MINIMUM THICKNESS (API 650)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      11.<\/td>\nTANK SHELL – CORRODED AREA (API 653)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      12.<\/td>\nTANK SHELL – PITTING (API 653)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      13.<\/td>\nBOTTOM PLATE MINIMUM THICKNESS (API 653)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      14.<\/td>\nREPLACEMENT PLATES (API 653)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      15.<\/td>\nLAP WELDED PATCH PLATES (API 653)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

       <\/p>\n

      By focusing on the API 653 Body of Knowledge, you ensure that you are well-equipped with the fundamental understanding and expertise necessary to succeed in the examination and, more importantly, to excel in the field of aboveground storage tanks. It is, without a doubt, the foundational resource that lays the path to certification and a successful career in this critical industry.<\/p>\n

      To take your exam preparation to the next level, consider enrolling in the API 653 training<\/a> program offered by PetroSync<\/a>. This specialized training is designed to provide in-depth insights into the intricacies of API 653 standards, and the instructor, holding a valuable API 653 certification, brings a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to the table.<\/p>\n

      This means that you not only get access to expert guidance but also the opportunity to engage in discussions, seek clarifications, and reference to real-world scenarios. Such interactions with an experienced instructor and fellow participants can significantly enhance your understanding and readiness for the API 653 certification exam, ensuring you are well-prepared to excel in your career within the field of aboveground storage tanks with API 653 training<\/a> by PetroSync.<\/p>\n

      Credit: Freepik<\/p>\n

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