Oil Fuel Storage Tank Design & Construction
Course Provider: Engr. Dipo Anom | April-2025
Module 2: Tank Design Principles and API Standards
Course Title: Oil Fuel Storage Tank Design & Construction
Module 2: Tank Design Principles and API Standards
Format: Academic Presentation Summary
1. Objective
To understand the structural and design principles of atmospheric oil storage tanks with
reference to API and related international standards.
2. Key Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module, students should be able to:
• Apply the design logic of vertical cylindrical storage tanks.
• Interpret design parameters from API 650 and API 620.
• Understand stress, load, and pressure distribution in tank structures.
• Recognize design criteria for seismic, wind, and hydrostatic loads.
3. Design Philosophy
• Design based on hydrostatic pressure of stored liquid.
• Ensure structural integrity, leak prevention, and safety.
• Comply with environmental and fire protection codes.
4. API 650: Design of Welded Steel Tanks for Oil Storage
• Applicable for tanks storing products at ambient pressure
• Typical tank sizes: 100 m3 – 150,000 m3
• Key Sections:
o Section 3 – Materials
o Section 5 – Design Considerations
o Section 7 – Fabrication
o Section 9 – Testing (Hydrotest, Vacuum)
Key Parameters:
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• Shell Thickness
• Tank Diameter (D)
• Height (H)
• Corrosion Allowance
• Wind Load (based on ASCE 7-10)
• Seismic Zone Factor (using IBC/UBC)
5. API 620: Low-Pressure Storage Tanks
• Applicable for gas, LNG, LPG
• Not commonly used for diesel/gasoline terminals
• Design pressure: up to 15 psig
• Allowable temperature: -325°F to 250°F
6. Roof Design Options
• Cone Roof (fixed): for diesel, HFO
• Dome Roof: for large diameter tanks
• Floating Roof:
o Internal: reduces vapor loss
o External: for gasoline or naphtha
7. Bottom Plate and Annular Ring Design
• Tank bottom designed to support hydrostatic load
• Annular ring (API requirement) used for larger tanks >36m dia
• Slope for drainage (minimum 1:120)
8. Wind and Seismic Load Considerations
• Use ASCE 7 wind design for local wind speed
• Use IBC/UBC seismic maps for tank anchoring
• Wind girder reinforcement for tanks >12m diameter
• Seismic anchors or base shear calculations required
9. Corrosion Allowance & Shell Design
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• Standard allowance: 1.5 mm – 3 mm
• Corrosion resistance by:
o Internal coatings
o Cathodic protection
o Periodic inspection and repair
10. Summary
Tank design under API 650 is an essential discipline in oil storage engineering. Understanding
the influence of pressure, wind, seismic, and material strength allows engineers to ensure safe,
cost-effective tank systems.
References:
• API Standard 650 (Welded Steel Tanks)
• API Standard 620 (Low-Pressure Tanks)
• ASCE 7 (Minimum Design Loads)
• IBC / UBC Seismic Codes
• NFPA 30 for Fire Safety Design
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