API Tanks – What Is Piping

What is API 650 Tank? Tanks which are designed following rules and guidelines of API 650 are API 650 tanks. API 650 is the governing code for Welded tanks for Oil storage normally operating in the atmospheric pressure range. The code API 650 provides guidelines for design, fabrication, material, erection, and inspection of welded vertical and cylindrical storage tanks. Such Tanks must be above ground with a closed or open top. Fig. 1: API 650 Tank What is API 620 Tank? API 620 covers the design and construction of field assembled large storage tanks operating in the low-pressure zone. Normally, API 620 tanks have more design pressure as compared to API 650 tanks. Fig. 2: Typical API 620 Tank In this article, we will study the major differences that these two types of tanks possess i.e API 650 vs API 620 Similarities between API 650 and API 620 Tanks Both tanks are used for storage purposes.Both API 620 & API 650 Tanks can be constructed from carbon steel, austenitic stainless steel, and nickel alloys (low temperature only).A Welding Certification is stipulated by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), Section 10 for both the tanks.For both tanks, Non Destructive inspection is required but a third party inspection is not required. Differences between API 650 and API 620 Tanks: API 650 vs API 620 The major differences between API 650 and API 620 tanks are produced below in a tabular format. Sr NoParameterAPI 650 TanksAPI 620 Tanks1DescriptionWelded Steel Tanks for Oil StorageDesign and Construction of Large, Low-Pressure Storage Tanks2ConfigurationGround-Supported Bottom, Open or Closed RoofAny configuration that has a single centered, vertical axis of revolution3ConfigurationEntire tank bottom has to be uniformly supportedSuch tanks must have a single vertical axis of revolution4Shop/Field ErectedShop (Appendix J) or Field ErectedField Erected5Tank SizesAnytank size larger than 300 ft.6Temperature Range-40 Deg. F to 500 Deg. F-325 Deg. F to 250 Deg. F7Maximum Pressure2.5 psig (pounds per square inch gage) or 17.2 Kpa15 psig8MaterialsCarbon Steel, Austenitic Stainless Steel, Duplex Stainless Steel, AluminumCarbon Steel, Austenitic Stainless Steel, Nickel Alloys (Low Temp only)9Uses/IndustriesOil, Gas, Chemical, Water, and Bio-Fuel storage. Maximum of the most common welded steel tanks used in industry are designed following API 650. Tanks typically found in Refinery tank farms, Terminals, Pipelines, and other process facilities use these tanks.Tanks like LNG tanks or Cryogenic tanks which requires high internal pressure are designed as per API 620.Table: API 650 Tanks vs API 620 Tanks Few more related articles for you.A Brief Presentation on Storage TanksVarious Types of Atmospheric Storage TanksTank Settlement for Piping Stress AnalysisConsiderations for Storage Tanks Nozzles OrientationEquipment and Piping Layout for Storage TanksCase Study of Tank Farm Design and Dike Wall Height Calculation