scope:

FOREWORD

This standard is based on the accumulated knowledge and experience of owners, operators, manufacturers, and repairers of steel storage tanks. The object of this publication is to provide guidance in the inspection, repair, alteration, and reconstruction of steel storage tanks used in the petroleum and chemical industries.

If tanks are inspected, repaired, altered, or reconstructed in accordance with this standard, the owner/operator may elect to modify, delete, or amplify sections of this standard. It is strongly recommended that such modifications, deletions, or amplifications be made by supplementing this standard rather than by rewriting or incorporating sections into another complete standard.

The rules given in this standard are minimum requirements. This standard is not to be interpreted as approving, recommending, or endorsing any specific design nor limiting the methods of inspection, repair, alteration, or reconstruction.

Each edition, revision, or addenda to this API standard may be used beginning with the date of issuance shown on the cover page for that edition, revision, or addenda. Each edition, revision, or addenda to this API standard becomes effective six months after the date of issuance for equipment that is certified as being rerated, reconstructed, relocated, repaired, modified (altered), inspected, and tested per this standard. During the six-month time between the date of issuance of the edition, revision, or addenda and the effective date, the purchaser and manufacturer shall specify to which edition, revision, or addenda the equipment is to be rated, reconstructed, relocated, repaired, modified (altered), inspected, and tested.

API standards are published as an aid to procurement of standardized equipment and materials. API standards are not intended to inhibit purchasers or producers from purchasing or producing products made to specifications other than those of API.

API standards may be used by anyone desiring to do so. Every effort has been made by the Institute to assure the accuracy and reliability of the data contained in them; however, the Institute makes no representation, warranty, or guarantee in connection with the publication of API standards and hereby expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility for loss or damage resulting from their use; for any violation of any federal, state, or municipal regulation with which an API standard may conflict; or for the infringement of any patent resulting from the use of an API standard.

Suggested revisions are invited and should be submitted to the general manager of the Downstream Segment, American Petroleum Institute, 1220 L Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20005.