The API 620 standard specifies that large storage tanks must be made of low-pressure welded carbon steel with a single vertical axis of revolution. These tanks are designed to hold liquids, gases, or vapors above their surface, with metal temperatures not exceeding 250 °F and pressures in gas or vapor spaces not exceeding 15 lbf/in². The standard dictates the operational conditions, such as being suitable for environments where temperatures can drop to -50°F. It also details the welding methods such as metal arc armored, gas metal arc, and others for construction. While the standard doesn't cover horizontal tanks, it recommends adhering to good engineering practices for their design and construction .

The inspection process described in API 620 is pivotal for ensuring tank integrity as it involves thorough checks by the manufacturer's inspector to confirm that all construction and welding practices align with the stringent standards. This process ensures that any potential points of failure are identified and rectified before the tank is operational. It also guarantees that the quality of workmanship is consistently first-class, preventing unnoticed flaws that could lead to operational failures or safety hazards .

API 620 allows welding techniques such as metal arc armored, gas metal arc, gas tungsten arc, oxy-fuel, flow arc, submerged arc, and electrogas. The use of these techniques is influenced by factors such as the specific material properties, the intended operating environment of the storage tanks, and the need to ensure a strong and durable weld. Additionally, considerations regarding the equipment available, the skill level of the workers, and the specific parts of the construction where these welding methods are most effective must be taken into account to optimize the integrity and longevity of the tanks .

The API 620 standard ensures safety and reliability by setting specific limits on material temperatures and pressures that tanks can withstand, thus preventing structural failures. It requires that tanks be constructed for environments with atmospheric temperatures as low as -50°F, ensuring they can endure harsh conditions. The standard specifies various welding techniques, such as metal arc armored and gas tungsten arc, to ensure strong, reliable joins. Additionally, it mandates first-class workmanship and close inspection by the manufacturer's inspector, ensuring that all tanks are thoroughly checked for compliance and quality .

API 620 imposes a metal temperature limit not exceeding 250°F and pressure limits in gas or vapor spaces not exceeding 15 lbf/in². These limits are significant because they ensure the safe handling and storage of substances under low-pressure conditions, reducing the risk of tank failure due to excessive thermal or pressure stress. By adhering to these constraints, the standard ensures that the tanks perform effectively within their intended operational envelope, thus maintaining structural integrity and safety .

API 620 assures the quality of manufacturing practices by requiring all tanks to comply with its strict design and construction standards, including adherence to limited metal temperatures and pressures. The standard mandates that all workmanship be of first-class quality, subjecting the final structure to thorough inspections by a manufacturer’s inspector. The use of specified welding techniques ensures strong and durable constructions, while inspections and adherence to design specifications guarantee that tanks meet safety and functionality standards .

The API 620 standard does not cover the design procedures for tanks with non-cylindrical shapes because such tanks cannot be fully generated by rotating a suitable contour around a single vertical axis of revolution. This limitation inherently means that the standard is tailored specifically towards cylindrical storage tanks, where the forces acting on the structure are more predictable and can be uniformly distributed. Non-cylindrical shapes may introduce complexities in stress distribution and structural integrity that require additional considerations not covered by the standard .

Storage tanks designed according to the API 620 standard are intended to be used in environments with temperatures that may drop as low as -50°F. They are designed to handle low-pressure liquids, gases, or vapors at temperatures not exceeding 250°F, making them suitable for a variety of industrial applications where safe material storage at specified temperatures and pressures is crucial .

Using multiple welding methods as allowed by the API 620 specifications, such as metal arc armored, gas metal arc, and oxy-fuel, provides flexibility and adaptability in tank construction. Different methods are optimal for different materials or parts of the tank structure, ensuring the best possible joins and overall durability. This approach allows manufacturers to choose the best technique for ensuring structural integrity based on material properties, thicknesses, and specific construction challenges, thus enhancing the tank’s reliability and life span .

While API 620 does not cover horizontal tanks, it suggests that good engineering practices can be applied to their design and construction. This means using the same principles of careful material selection, ensuring proper welding methods, and adhering to safety limits on temperature and pressure. By appropriately adapting these criteria, engineers can ensure that horizontal tanks perform reliably albeit not designed directly under API 620 guidelines .