For facilities managers, API 653 inspections ensure that storage tank issues (e.g., weakened tank walls or damage that could lead to failure) are spotted before they become major problems.
But what are API 653 inspections? Simply put, they are industry standards developed by the American Petroleum Institute (API) to assess the condition of large above-ground industrial tanks with the main goal of ensuring your tanks remain in good working order and can handle the demands of daily operations without unexpected issues.
Now, there are key reasons why these inspections are essential for effective tank maintenance.
Identifies Structural Weaknesses Before They Escalate
Perhaps you’re well aware by now that tiny issues in a tank’s structure can go unnoticed until they cause major damage. This is why using proper inspection methods like storage tank API 653 helps spot signs of wear before they get worse. Think of it like getting a health check-up before any real symptoms show.
Inspections can find things like uneven settling, thinning metal, or weld cracks. These aren’t always visible from the outside but can seriously affect how safe the tank is. And that’s why catching them early is essential in order to avoid costly breakdowns later.
Maximises the Operational Lifespan of Storage Assets
Tanks that last longer save companies time and money. By implementing regular checks, your maintenance teams can fix small things early so they don’t turn into big problems. It’s all about giving the tank a better shot at a longer working life.
Understanding how parts are wearing out also supports better upkeep. Just like analysing financial statements to understand where the money goes, API 653-aligned inspections show where the wear and tear really is. This insight lets teams plan better and keep everything working well without unexpected surprises.
Reduces Environmental and Safety Hazards
Leaks or weak points in tanks can cause serious accidents. Bear in mind that even a small crack can let harmful materials escape and put workers or nearby areas at risk? That’s why regular checks matter so much in spotting danger before it turns into a real problem.
How frustrating can it be, especially for facilities managers, when the tank fails simply because a minor leak was ignored or not spotted earlier? The clean-up is not just messy but also expensive and damaging as well!
Fortunately, a well-timed inspection can stop all that by flagging issues early. For example, checking for underground storage tank tightness can reveal slow leaks that would’ve gone unnoticed until it was too late.
Ensures Compliance with Industry and Environmental Standards
Do you feel frustrated with the many strict rules mandated by authorities about how tanks should be managed, especially when they store fuel or chemicals? Don’t be!
Keeping up with rules isn’t just about avoiding trouble; it’s also about doing things safely and responsibly. For example, API 653 inspections help businesses meet industry codes and environmental laws that protect people and the planet. So it just makes sense that skipping routine checks should lead to big fines or forced shutdowns.
For expert storage tank inspections that meet the highest industry standards, get in touch with NDT Thai Service today to ensure the safety and reliability of your tanks.
