API 653 Aboveground Storage Tank Inspector Exam Study Guide
Purpose:
A focused preparation guide for candidates preparing for the API 653 Tank Inspection, Repair,
Alteration, and Reconstruction examination.
1. Exam Preparation Strategy
API 653 is an open-book exam. Success depends on:
- Understanding API 653 requirements
- Knowing where information is located in the codes
- Practicing calculations
- Applying inspection judgement
Recommended preparation time:
- Experienced tank engineer: 6–8 weeks
- New to tank inspection: 10–12 weeks
2. Priority References
Primary:
- API 653 Tank Inspection, Repair, Alteration, and Reconstruction
- API 650 Welded Tanks for Oil Storage
Supporting:
- API RP 575 Inspection Practices for Atmospheric and Low-Pressure Storage Tanks
- API RP 577 Welding Inspection and Metallurgy
- ASME Section V and Section IX (basic understanding)
3. High Priority API 653 Topics
Section 4 - Suitability for Service
Study:
- Evaluation of tank condition
- Minimum thickness requirements
- Corrosion assessment
- Remaining life calculations
Section 6 - Inspection
Study:
- External inspections
- Internal inspections
- Inspection intervals
- Settlement surveys
- Inspection records
Section 7 - Repairs and Alterations
Study:
- Welding requirements
- Repair planning
- Temporary repairs
- Hot taps
- Alteration requirements
Section 8 - Reconstruction
Study:
- Requirements after major work
- Testing requirements
- Documentation
4. Must Know Calculations
Practice until comfortable:
Corrosion Rate:
CR = (Original Thickness - Current Thickness) / Time
Remaining Life:
RL = (Current Thickness - Minimum Required Thickness) / Corrosion Rate
Minimum Shell Thickness:
Know the API 653 method and API 650 relationship.
Hydrostatic test calculations:
Understand test height limits and acceptance requirements.
Settlement:
Understand edge settlement, bottom settlement, and distortion evaluations.
5. Study Schedule (6 Weeks)
Week 1:
Read API 653 cover to cover.
Mark important sections.
Week 2:
Focus on inspection requirements and intervals.
Week 3:
Study repairs, alterations, welding, and NDE.
Week 4:
Study API 650 design concepts and calculations.
Week 5:
Complete practice questions and timed exams.
Week 6:
Review weak areas and practice code lookup.
6. Exam Technique
- Learn code locations, not just answers.
- Read questions carefully; wording matters.
- Do calculations without guessing.
- Skip difficult questions and return later.
- Practice using references under time pressure.
7. Final Checklist
Before exam day:
[ ] API 653 sections reviewed
[ ] Thickness calculations mastered
[ ] Corrosion calculations mastered
[ ] Repair requirements understood
[ ] Inspection intervals memorized
[ ] Practice exams completed
Good preparation comes from combining field experience with strong code navigation skills.