Linings of Aboveground Petroleum Storage Tank Bottoms

API RP 652: Linings of Aboveground Petroleum Storage Tank Bottoms

Protecting the integrity of petroleum storage tanks is paramount in the oil and gas industry, directly impacting safety, environmental compliance, and operational efficiency. For professionals tasked with ensuring the longevity and reliability of these critical assets, understanding the best practices for tank bottom linings is essential. API RP 652 provides an authoritative guide to this complex but vital aspect of tank maintenance and construction.

What is API RP 652?

API Recommended Practice 652, "Linings of Aboveground Petroleum Storage Tank Bottoms," is an industry-leading standard developed by the American Petroleum Institute. Its primary purpose is to provide comprehensive guidance on the selection, application, and inspection of protective linings for the bottoms of aboveground petroleum storage tanks, thereby mitigating corrosion and extending tank service life.

Scope & Purpose

This esteemed document governs the use of internal coatings and linings specifically designed for the bottoms of aboveground storage tanks that hold petroleum products and related materials. It addresses various lining types, surface preparation techniques, application procedures, and inspection protocols. While it focuses on linings for tank bottoms, it does not typically cover external coatings or linings for tank walls or roofs, nor does it dictate specific product formulations.

Who Must Comply?

• • Primary audience: Tank Inspectors, Corrosion Engineers, Maintenance Engineers, Project Managers, and Quality Control Inspectors.
• • Industries affected: Oil and Gas (upstream, midstream, and downstream), Petrochemical, and Chemical Storage.
• • Compliance nature: While API RP 652 is a "Recommended Practice," it is often mandated by regulatory bodies, company policies, and contractual agreements, making compliance highly recommended and often a de facto requirement.
• • Enforcement: Compliance is typically overseen by owners/operators, third-party inspection agencies, and regulatory authorities during routine inspections, audits, and project commissioning.

Key Requirements Overview

The standard requires a thorough assessment of tank service conditions and potential corrosion mechanisms before selecting a lining system. Professionals must ensure that surface preparation meets stringent cleanliness and profile standards to guarantee lining adhesion. Key provisions include detailed guidelines for the selection of appropriate lining materials based on the stored product and expected service life. The document also outlines essential inspection and testing procedures during and after lining application to verify quality and immediate performance.

Related Standards & References

API RP 652 works in conjunction with other essential API standards. API 650 (Welded Tanks for Oil Storage) provides the foundational design and construction requirements for tanks, while API 653 (Tank Inspection, Repair, Alteration, and Reconstruction) offers guidance on assessing tank integrity and the conditions under which lining might be considered during repairs. Understanding these complementary standards is crucial for a holistic approach to tank bottom protection.