API 575 Study Guide

API 653 Cert Prep

This following is a study aid that you can use to help you learn the details and content
of API RP-575, Inspection of Atmospheric and Low-Pressure Storage Tanks (2nd
Edition). There will be about 15-30 questions from this document on the API 653 exam.
We do not spend much time in class discussing this publication. So it is important that
you become familiar with this content in your personal study sessions.
The questions in this study aid are in the same order as API 575. The answer key is in
the back of this guide. When you study API 575, read a number of pages and then
answer the corresponding questions. You want to keep practicing this study guide until
you can score 80+%.
Open book questions are highlighted in yellow.

Section 2
Description of Code

Code

Old Code used to build riveted tanks

Construction code for low-pressure tanks

Construction code for atmospheric tanks

Cathodic protection of tanks

Tank linings

Tank venting

Safety precautions for tank entry (2 codes)

UL tank Construction code

MSTS

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Section 3
1.

The generic definition of atmospheric pressure is pressures up to:

a.
b.
c.
d.

0.05 psig.
0.5 psig.
2.5 psig.
15 psig.

Section 4
1.

The inspection guidelines of API 572 should be followed when the operating
pressure exceeds:
a.
b.
c.
d.

2.

As the product temperature increases, the products vapor pressure:

a.
b.
c.
d.

3.

0.0 psig.
a few ounces of pressure.
2.5 psig.
15 ounces of pressure.
15 psig.

While in operation, which tank type roof is supported by internal members?

a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

decreases.
decreases only if specific gravity is less than 1.0.
increases.
increases only if specific gravity is less than 1.0.

A pressure-vacuum vent is installed on a tank. The PV vent will ensure that the
inside pressure or inside vacuum does not exceed:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

4.

0.05 psig.
0.5 psig
2.5 psig
15 psig.

Cone roof
Dome roof
Floating roof
Umbrella

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5.

Fixed-roof tanks are often self-supporting when tank diameter does not exceed:
a.
b.
c.
d.

6.

Which of the following is not an advantage of a geodesic dome roof?

a.
b.
c.

7.

Foam log
Mechanical shoe
Wiper

Why are internal floating roofs sometimes used?

a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

Double-deck
Pan
Pontoon

Which is the most common type of floating-roof seal?

a.
b.
c.

11.

Double-deck
Pan
Pontoon

Which type of external floating-roof is the least susceptible to sinking?

a.
b.
c.

10.

Less affected by severe weather

Less expensive
Less maintenance issues
Minimizes vapor emissions

Which type of external floating-roof is the most susceptible to sinking?

a.
b.
c.

9.

Low cost roof

Keeps snow and rain off of an internal floating roof
Can be used on any size of tank

What is the primary reason for using a floating roof instead of a cone roof tank?
a.
b.
c.
d.

8.

20 feet.
40 feet.
60 feet.
100 feet.

Lowers construction costs

Reduces vapor loss
Minimizes effects of weather (rain & snow)
Either reduces vapor loss or minimizes effects of weather (rain & snow)

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12.

Which of the following floating roofs is normally not constructed from steel?
a.
b.
c.
d.

13.

Low-pressure storage tanks are those with a design pressure from:

a.
b.
c.
d.

14.

-60 to 40 oF.
-50 to 32 oF.
-100 to 0 oF.
-270 to -60 oF.

Hemispheroidal, spheroidal, and noded spheroidal tanks are commonly used when
the design pressure exceeds:
a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

-60 to 40 oF.
-50 to 32 oF.
-100 to 0 oF.
-270 to -60 oF.

API 620 Appendix Q provides design rules for refrigerated tanks with design
temperatures between:
a.
b.
c.
d.

17.

high vapor pressure.

low vapor pressure.
high specific gravity.
low specific gravity.

API 620 Appendix R provides design rules for refrigerated tanks with design
temperatures between:
a.
b.
c.
d.

16.

0.0 - 0.05 psig.

0.05 2.5 psig.
2.5 15 psig.
5.0 25 psig.

Low-pressure storage tanks are normally used for products that have a:
a.
b.
c.
d.

15.

Double-deck
Internal on floats
Pan
Pontoon

2.5 psig.
5.0 psig.
10.0 psig.
125.0 psig

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Section 5
1.

Which of the following codes is not a tank inspection code:

a.
b.
c.
d.

2.

A tank pad is installed with cinders. What chemical in the cinders can cause
bottom-side corrosion when the pad gets wet?
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

3.

MSTS

Clay or wood left in sand pad

Faulty installation of sand pad
Improperly sealed ring wall
Leaking product that is corrosive
Operating temperatures below 200 oF
Poor drainage in tank area

In order to prevent bottom-side corrosion, which of the following is not

recommended?
a.
b.
c.
d.

5.

Chlorides
Iron
Kryptonite
Silicon
Sulfur

Which of the following is not a common cause of bottom-side corrosion on a tank

floor?
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.

4.

API RP 12R1
API 653
STI SP001
UL-142

Asphalt-impregnated fiberboard on top of ring-wall

Operating a tank at temperatures above 200 oF
Install sand pad using specified ASTM materials that is 3-4 thick
Installing tank foundation 12 above grade of area inside tank dike

What are two common causes of severe external corrosion at the bottom of the
lower shell course?
a.

_____________________________________

b.

_____________________________________

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6.

7.

What are three types of atmospheres that can cause external atmospheric
corrosion?
a.

_____________________________________

b.

_____________________________________

c.

_____________________________________

Concentration cell corrosion may occur in the many niches of:

a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

8.

Most tanks are made from which metallurgy(s)?

a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

9.

10.

Carbon steel
Chromes
Carbon steel or chromes
Kryptonite
Austenitic stainless steel

What are three common vapors that cause corrosion in a tanks vapor space?
a.

______________________________

b.

______________________________

c.

______________________________

Generally in the liquid portion of a tank, internal corrosion is worse at the:

a.
b.
c.

MSTS

cone roof tanks.

internal floating roof tanks.
low-pressure tanks.
riveted tanks.
small diameter tanks.

bottom of the tank.

top of the liquid.
welds.

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11.

Which of the following tank products does not cause stress corrosion cracking?
a.
b.
c.
d.

12.

Which welds on a tank are most susceptible to stress corrosion cracking?

a.
b.
c.
d.

13.

acids.
chlorides.
hydrocarbons.
sulfides.

Horizontal uninsulated cylindrical tanks can sometimes experience accelerated

external corrosion on:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

MSTS

High design temperature

Increased strength
Lower cost
Maintain product purity

Stress corrosion cracking of austenitic stainless steels can occur in the presence
of:
a.
b.
c.
d.

15.

Bottom fillet welds

Horizontal shell welds
Nozzle-to-shell welds
Roof fillet welds

Occasionally a tank will be built with alloy materials. Which of the following is a
common reason for selecting alloys to build a tank?
a.
b.
c.
d.

14.

Benzene
Caustic
DEA
Ethanol

heads.
longitudinal welds.
nozzles.
saddle-to-tank interface.
shell-to-roof weld.

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16.

What type of tank failure has occurred in the past that results in a sudden and
complete loss of the product?
a.
b.
c.
d.

17.

Which tank weld is most likely to have a leak that is the result of a weld defect?
a.
b.
c.
d.

18.

Bottom fillet welds

Bottom-to-shell weld
Horizontal shell weld
Roof-to-shell weld
Vertical shell weld

A tank experiences excessive uniform tank settlement. Which area of the tank
is most likely to be over-stressed?
a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

Around rivet holes

Bracket welds
Nozzle welds
Roof fillet welds

What weld is most susceptible to cracking in a hot tank?

a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

21.

Bottom fillet welds

Bottom-to-shell weld
Horizontal shell welds
Vertical shell welds

In which of the following areas are cracks least likely to occur?

a.
b.
c.
d.

20.

Annular plate butt welds

Bottom fillet welds
Horizontal shell welds.
Three-plate lap welds

In which of the following welds are cracks most likely to occur?

a.
b.
c.
d.

19.

Brittle failure
Failure at extensive deep pitting
Failure at a localized thin area
Thermal fatigue

Nozzles
Horizontal shell weld
Roof-to-shell weld
Vertical shell weld

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22.

Which of the following is not a common cause of tank settlement?

a.
b.
c.
d.

23.

Pressure-vacuum vents and flame arrestors can fail to operate for a variety of
reasons. Which of the following is not a cause?
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

24.

Corrosion rate from tanks in similar service

Corrosion rate from an API or NACE document
Corrosion rate from a corrosion probe or coupon placed inside the tank
Corrosion engineers estimated corrosion rate

Which tank component normally controls the tanks internal interval?

a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

mandatory for all tanks.

mandatory only on low-pressure storage tanks.
considered a "memory jogger" for the inspector.

Which of the following can be used to determine the corrosion rate of the tank
bottom?
a.
b.
c.
d.

27.

can cause the roof to sink.

can cause excessive tank settlement.
will significantly increase the stress in the shell.
will increase the water in the bottom of the tank.

The inspection checklists listed in API 653 Appendix C are:

a.
b.
c.

26.

Deposits by birds or insects (poop, mud, etc.)

Corrosion between moving parts
Fouled
Ice in cold climates
Product specific gravity is increased

A plugged floating roof drain:

a.
b.
c.
d.

25.

Frequent freezing and thawing

High tides in tidal areas
Marshy areas
Venus and Mars are aligned with a full moon

Bottom
Nozzles
Roof
Shell

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28.

Similar service is being used to determine the corrosion rate for a tank bottom.
Which of the following statements is true?
a.
b.
c.

29.

Bottom side and top side corrosion rates should be determined independently.
Soil-side corrosion on a tank bottom can vary from negligible up to rates
approaching:
a.
b.
c.
d.

30.

Hydrogen
Lead
Mercury
Pepper
Salt
Sugar
Sulfur

Corrosion rates on a tank bottom will increase if the:

a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

MSTS

5 mils per year.

10 mils per year.
15 mils per year.
20 mils per year.

What is one common component in BS&W (bottom sediment & water) that
increases its corrosiveness?
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.

31.

Use the bottom corrosion rate for a tank with exactly the same product.
Use an average bottom corrosion rate from several tanks with similar
product.
Use the bottom corrosion rate for a tank built at exactly the same time
period.

fill height is increased.

operating temperature decreases.
operating temperature increases.
tank service is changed to a product with a lower specific gravity.
tank service is changed to a product with a higher specific gravity.

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Section 6
1.

External CP should be:

a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

2.

Which document provides additional guidance on inspecting tank appurtances and

accessories?
a.
b.
c.
d.

3.

practically no stress over the entire floor.

practically no stress in the floor away from the shell.
equal stresses in floor and shell plates.
equal stresses that are equal throughout the shell.

On a 120 foot diameter tank the:

a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

should never be less than .

considers only the specific gravity of the product.
considers only the specific gravity of the hydrotest water.
considers both the specific gravity of the product and the hydrotest
water.

The product in a tank creates:

a.
b.
c.
d.

5.

API 652
API 2610
NACE 45R96
STI-008

For new tanks built to API 650, the minimum new thickness:
a.
b.
c.
d.

4.

installed on all new tanks.

installed on all tanks that are built on a sand pad.
installed per API 2015.
checked per API 651.
checked per NACE CP-005.

pressure is highest at the bottom of the shell.

highest stresses are in the tank floor.
shell plates will be the same thickness on each course.
nozzles flanges should Class 300.

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6.

A large area on a shell course is corroded below acceptable limits. Which of the
following is not an acceptable option?
a.
b.
c.
d.

7.

An isolated deep pit in the shell:

a.
b.
c.
d.

8.

11.

designed per AISCs Steel Construction Manual.

designed per API 650.
made from 3/16 steel.
made from pipe.

The two primary factors of risk are:

a.

___________________ of failure.

b.

___________________ of failure.

Which of the following is not a normal outcome from an RBI assessment?

a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

annular plates.
floor plates.
nozzles.
shell plates.

Roof supports are normally:

a.
b.
c.
d.

10.

does not appreciably weaken the shell.

must always be repaired.
never needs to be repaired.
Should be evaluated per API 580.

Neither API 650 or API 653 have a method for determining the minimum
required thickness of a tanks:
a.
b.
c.
d.

9.

Replace the corroded area

Lower the fill height
Change to a product with a lower specific gravity
Coat the corroded area with a lining

When to inspect
Where to inspect
NDE technique(s) to use during the inspection
Qualification requirements for individual performing the inspection

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12.

Guidance on how to perform an RBI assessment can be found in:

a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

13.

bromides.
chlorides.
oxides.
sulfides.

lock out all pumps near the tank.

check condition of overhead structures inside the tank.
review the API 653 Appendix C checklist.
take external UT readings on the shell.

Prior to entering a floating roof tank, be sure to:

a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

API 2015 & 2016

API 2201
API 2601
USDA 4601

Prior to entering a tank, be sure to:

a.
b.
c.
d.

4.

Section 7

Inspection paint or crayon markers used on SS should be free of:

a.
b.
c.
d.

3.

API 579
API 580
API 581

Safety precautions dealing with tank entry are discussed in:

a.
b.
c.
d.

2.

579.
580.
581.
579 or API 580.
580 or API 581.

Which document can be used during fitness for service assessments?

a.
b.
c.

1.

API
API
API
API
API

check that there is not a significant amount of liquid on the roof.

review tank entry guidelines specified in API 579.
review the API 653 Appendix C checklist.
take external UT readings on the roof.

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5.

Prior to conducting a tank inspection, the inspector should:

a.
b.
c.
d.

6.

Anchor bolts may be subject to what type of degradation?

a.
b.
c.

7.

drilling a drain hole.

replacing the platform.
adding additional support to cone-up the platform.
removing the platform and providing a rope to hang on to.

The external joint between the tank floor plate extension and a concrete
foundation should be:
a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

UT.
UT or RT.
MT or PT.
scrapper or hammer.

Low spots on a platform that collect water are routine places for corrosion to
occur. This can be simply solved by:
a.
b.
c.
d.

10.

angle iron.
bars
t-bars
tubular

Crevices in structural members should be checked with:

a.
b.
c.
d.

9.

calcining
corrosion/erosion
crevice corrosion

Which handrail member should be given special attention?

a.
b.
c.
d.

8.

read previous inspection records.

obtain an API TES certification.
obtain an API 650 certification.
determine the shell joint efficiency.

covered.
grouted.
insulated.
sealed.

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11.

Anchor bolt corrosion below the nut can be checked by using:

a.
b.
c.
d.

12.

Tank grounding connections should be checked:

a.
b.
c.
d.

13.

Blister
Bonding failure
Holiday
Graffiti

Paint blisters occur most often on which of the following tank parts?
a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

API 651
API 2003
API 2015
API 2201

Which coating problem is the most difficult to detect?

a.
b.
c.
d.

16.

5 ohms.
25 ohms.
50 ohms.
250 ohms.

Which document provides information concerning the use of tank grounding to

prevent static electricity?
a.
b.
c.
d.

15.

per API 651.

per API 2601.
with an ammeter.
visually.

The resistance in tank grounding should not exceed:

a.
b.
c.
d.

14.

acoustic emission.
eddy current.
hammer testing.
RT.

Plate extension
Nozzles
Roof
Shady side of the tank

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17.

Paint blisters occur most often on which of the following tank parts?
a.
b.
c.
d.

18.

A tank is insulated. Where is a likely spot for external shell corrosion?

a.
b.
c.
d.

19.

At the bottom
Near the top
Below a horizontal weld seam
There is not a typical location for external shell corrosion

Which of the following is not a cause of corrosion at the bottom of a tank shell?
a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

10 - 350 oF.
50 - 150 oF.
120 - 200 oF.
180 - 250 oF.

Where is a typical place for external corrosion on a tank shell?

a.
b.
c.
d.

22.

Acoustic Emission or Neutron back-scatter

Acoustic Emission or EMAT
Guided wave UT or EMAT
Thermography or Neutron back-scatter

CUI in carbon steel is most aggressive at a temperature range of:

a.
b.
c.
d.

21.

Nozzles
Shady side of the tank
Sunny side of the tank
Top of the tank

What technique(s) can be used to evaluate condition of insulation by finding

insulation hot spots?
a.
b.
c.
d.

20.

Anchor bolts
Paint under insulation
Nozzles
Side of the tank with the most sunlight

Build-up of soil on shell

Build-up of some foreign material on shell
Leakage of a corrosion product
Spalling of concrete ringwall

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23.

Rigorous hammer testing of the shell should:

a.
b.
c.
d.

24.

The upper shell of a floating roof tank has the potential for atmospheric
corrosion on both sides. On floating roof tanks with uncoated shells, special
attention should be given to the shell on the upper:
a.
b.
c.
d.

25.

MT with prods
MT with yoke and dry particles
MT with yoke and wet particles
PT

A tank is in caustic service. A very common place for caustic cracking is at:
a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

hammer tested.
visually inspected.
hammer tested and visually inspected.
not inspected.

If a crack is found in a wind girder, which technique should not be used to

determine the extent of cracking?
a.
b.
c.
d.

28.

Remove the coating at the UT location

Subtract the thickness of the coating from the UT reading
Use a multi-echo thickness scope
Let someone else take the reading!

Stiffeners and wind girders are normally:

a.
b.
c.
d.

27.

12.
24.
36.
shell course.

What is the best way to take UT thickness readings through a thin-film coating?
a.
b.
c.
d.

26.

never be done.
never be done on a tank that is in service.
be done by a ASNT technician.
be done to stress relieve the hammer tester!

vertical shell welds.

nozzle to shell welds.
bottom-to-shell weld.
connections for internal heating units.

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29.

Caustic and amine SCC shows up as:

a.
b.
c.
d.

30.

Caustic that seeps out of a tank crack will appear as a:

a.
b.
c.
d.

31.

external.
internal.
external or internal.
roof.

Hydrogen blistering is most easily found by using:

a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

bottom and shell.

nozzles.
roof and shell.
heating coils.

Hydrogen blistering occurs on the tanks:

a.
b.
c.
d.

34.

Additional cracking
Arc blow
Creation of pyrophoric iron
Small fire

Hydrogen blistering is most common on the tanks:

a.
b.
c.
d.

33.

brown oxide.
green goo.
red deposit.
white salt.

During an inspection of a caustic tank, cracking has been found at a couple of

nozzles. The inspector develops a repair plan to weld these cracks. If the metal
in the repair area is not thoroughly cleaned and neutralized what might occur
during welding?
a.
b.
c.
d.

32.

external cracks.
internal cracks.
external pits.
internal pits.

hammer testing.
RT.
UT scan.
visual and by touch.

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35.

Hydrogen blistering can easily be found on the shell by:

a.
b.
c.
d.

36.

Which of the following is not evidence of a tank shell leak?

a.
b.
c.
d.

37.

MT
PT
RT
UT

How can rivets be checked for tightness?

a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

Bottom-to-shell weld
Horizontal shell welds
Shell-to-Roof weld
Vertical shell welds

When cracking is suspect in an area of tank deformation, which NDE is

preferred?
a.
b.
c.
d.

40.

Defective vent
Earthquate
Exceeded product fill height
Settlement
Wind

Which of the following welds is least likely to crack as the result of tank
deformation?
a.
b.
c.
d.

39.

Bulge on the shell

Paint is missing
Puddle of product at base of the tank
Shell discoloration

Which of the following is not a cause of tank deformation?

a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

38.

holding a flashlight within 24 perpendicular to the shell.

holding a flashlight against the shell with the beam parallel to the shell.
UT A-scan.
MFL scan.

By lightly tabbing one side and holding a finger on the opposite side
UT straight beam
UT shear wave
Visually

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41.

A suitable means of determining the overall integrity of the roof is:

a.
b.
c.
d.

42.

Hammer testing the roof:

a.
b.
c.
d.

43.

d.

that the tank be high gauged.

stay on top of the pontoons.
to have two individuals on the roof at the same time.
sneak a smoke!

A floating roof tank is in a volatile service and is half full. Which of the
following is a requirement when walking on the floating roof?
a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

in the center of plates.

on the weld seams.
only if the roof thickness was verified with a few random spot UT
readings.
lightly.

A floating roof tank is in a volatile service. When walking on the floating roof, it
is advisable:
a.
b.
c.
d.

46.

2 rafters.
3 rafters.
10 ft.
20 ft.

When walking on a roof, it is advisable to walk:

a.
b.
c.

45.

is an adequate means to determine if the roof will support personnel.

might knock roof scale into the product.
is a suitable substitute for UT roof scans.
should be done with a 4 lb hammer.

Planks used as a walkway on the roof should span at least:

a.
b.
c.
d.

44.

hammer testing.
hammer testing or MFL.
UT examination or hammer testing.
UT examination or MFL.

Only walk on planks.

Perform a couple of spot UTs on the roof prior to walking on the roof.
Personnel on the roof must wear respiratory equipment.
Personnel on the roof must be tied off to the shell.

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47.

If the maximum operating level is exceeded on a floating roof tank:

a.
b.
c.
d.

48.

A blocked roof drain on a floating tank can cause:

a.
b.
c.
d.

49.

d.

the displayed reading is twice the actual thickness reading.

at least two UT readings are taken at each TML.
the thickness of the over-lapped portion of a fillet weld is twice the
measured thickness.
the UT instrument takes both thickness and temperature measurements.

The soil-to-air corrosion can affect tank farm piping. To check for soil-to-air
corrosion, the soil around the pipe should be dug away for:
a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

roof seams.
roof depressions.
the roof-to shell weld.
rafter locations.

Doubling of an UT instrument is when:

a.
b.
c.

52.

excessive hoop stresses on the tank shell.

deformation of the roof pontoons.
water to accumulate on in the bottom of the tank.
severe roof damage.

External roof corrosion is most common at:

a.
b.
c.
d.

51.

excessive hoop stresses on the tank shell.

deformation of the roof pontoons.
water to accumulate on in the bottom of the tank.
the roof to sink.

A floating roof is sitting on its legs. A blocked roof drain on a floating tank can
cause:
a.
b.
c.
d.

50.

excessive tank settlement will occur.

the stresses on horizontal welds will exceed that allowed by the code.
the seal may be damaged.
the roof drain will probably be damaged.

6 12 inches.
12 24 inches.
18 36 inches.
6 8 ft.

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53.

Which of the following is a potential cause for significant distortion of pipe

connected to the tank?
a.
b.
c.
d.

54.

Which of the following is a potential cause for significant distortion of pipe

connected to the tank in colder climates?
a.
b.
c.
d.

55.

Bees, mud daubers or insects

Corrosion build-up
Tank over pressure
Solidification of tank vapors

Which of the following is not a problem that can occur if a flame arrestor gets
plugged?
a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

Excessive internal corrosion

Internal caps melt
Internal screens get plugged
Incorrect flange class is use

Which of the following is not a common way for flame arrestors to get plugged?
a.
b.
c.
d.

58.

Must examine entire distorted area with UT scan

Must examine entire distorted area with PT
Clean and examine the distorted area for cracks
Clean and examine the distorted area for thinning

What is a common problem for flame arrestors?

a.
b.
c.
d.

57.

Frost heave of pipe supports

Over filling the tank
Nozzle corrosion
Thinning of shell

What should be done if there is significant distortion discovered at a nozzle?

a.
b.
c.
d.

56.

Excessive tank settlement

Over filling the tank
Nozzle corrosion
Undersized flange class

Floating roof sucks in

Tank over pressures
Tank roof-to-shell weld fails
Tanks sucks in due to vacuum

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59.

When inspecting a pressure-vacuum vent, which of the following is not something

that needs inspected?
a.
b.
c.
d.

60.

What is a reliable method for checking the floor for soil-side corrosion?
a.
b.
c.
d.

61.

The tank will probably need to be hydrotested

The foundation will need to be spark tested
This repair must be approved by the inspector and engineer
The concrete used in the repair should not slump more than 1-1/2

The owner elects to tunnel under a tank to see a portion of the bottom side of
the tank. What is the primary problem with tunneling?
a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

The technique requires little training

Inexpensive to perform
Significant portion of floor can be examined
Thickness reading is highly accurate

A tank is lifted in order to repair the tanks foundation. Based on this activity,
which of the following is correct?
a.
b.
c.
d.

64.

Lifting the tank

Removal of a few floor coupons
Robotic inspection
Spot UTs of a 36 grid

Which of the following is a primary advantage of the MFL floor scan?

a.
b.
c.
d.

63.

Lifting the tank

MFL (magnetic flux leakage)
Removal of a few floor coupons
Spot UT

What is a useful method for checking the tank floor for soil-side corrosion?
a.
b.
c.
d.

62.

Check for the build-up of solids

Check that moving parts are free to operate
Check for corrosion
Check vent sizing capacity

Cave-ins
Difficult to compact the fill
Interference with CP systems
Increases the likelihood of soil-to-air corrosion

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65.

Which of the following is not a reason for lifting a tank?

a.
b.
c.
d.

66.

Which of the following is not a cause of internal roof corrosion?

a.
b.
c.
d.

67.

b.

roof may sink.

API 653 inspector will not get blamed. (and you believe in the Easter

c.
d.

API 653 inspector will win the lottery.

API 653 inspector will get a raise.

The roof may sink.

The roof may tilt and damage the seals and roof.
The roof may tilt and turn upside down.
More difficult to prep the tank for inspections.

Which of the following is not commonly installed on a floating roof?

a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

Bunny too!)

If there are leaks in a floating roof or the pontoons, which of the following is
not likely to occur?
a.
b.
c.
d.

70.

The activity must be approved by the engineer and inspector

Coupons must be at least 6 x 6
Coupons must have rounded corners
Replacement plate must be stitch-welded at least 1 in every 12

If a floating roof drain gets plugged, the:

a.

69.

Corrosive product in the vapor space

Pyrophoric iron
Oxygen
Water vapor

Sometimes roof coupons are cut out in order to check the condition of the roof
rafters. Which of the following is correct when cutting roof coupons?
a.
b.
c.
d.

68.

100% inspection of the soil-side of the tank floor

Coat the bottom side of the floor
Repair the foundation or pad
Fillet weld the bottom seams on the soil-side

Cathodic Protection
Drains
Grounding Connections
Guides

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71.

What is likely to occur to a floating roof tank that has landed on its legs and the
drain is plugged?
a.
b.
c.
d.

72.

During an outage, the floating roof drain lines should initially be pressure tested
for hour. The test should normally be conducted at:
a.
b.
c.
d.

73.

c.
d.

This is such an important test, that a double check is needed.

The joint may be self-sealing at low pressures, but leaks at high
pressures.
The joint may be self-sealing at high pressures, but leaks at low
pressures.
Just a good way to collect more inspection man-hours.

When walking on an aluminum internal floating roof:

a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

2.5 psig.
5.0 psig.
15 psig.
30 psig.

What is the reason for a 2nd pressure test of a drain that has a swing joint?
a.
b.

75.

2.5 psig.
5.0 psig.
15 psig.
30 psig.

If a drain line contains a swing joint, a second hour pressure test should be
conducted at:
a.
b.
c.
d.

74.

The roof collapses

The roof sinks
Excessive top side corrosion occurs
The roof inspection will be performed with scuba gear!

add planking prior to walking on the tank.

be sure to walk on the seams.
take thickness readings prior to walking on the roof.
Best to use rope access and suspend from the ceiling.

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76.

Aluminum floating roof legs must be:

a.
b.
c.
d.

77.

Once it is safe to enter the tank, a preliminary inspection should first be

conducted of the:
a.
b.
c.
d.

78.

floor and top-side of the rafters.

rafters and bottom side of roof.
nozzles (360 degrees).
shell.

Pyrophoric material should be:

a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

cracking.
general metal loss.
ignition.
pitting.

Pyrophoric material tends to collect on the:

a.
b.
c.
d.

81.

on the bottom.
at the liquid-level line.
inside nozzles.
in the vapor space.

Dry pyrophoric material can cause:

a.
b.
c.
d.

80.

bottom.
nozzles.
roof and support system.
shell.

Normally internal tank corrosion is least likely to occur:

a.
b.
c.
d.

79.

at least 0.250 thick.

should be designed per API 620.
should be avoided in tanks with non-aluminum bottoms.
electrically isolated to from carbon steel to prevent galvanic corrosion.

air dried.
kept moist.
removed with a dry vacuum.
removed per API 2201.

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82.

Handling pyrophoric material is discussed in:

a.
b.
c.
d.

83.

In sour services, corrosion is often occurs in the:

a.
b.
c.
d.

84.

acid vapors.
hydrogen sulfide.
sulfidation.
water on top of the acid that creates a weaker acid.

In tanks rarely used, like pipeline breakout tanks, corrosion often occurs:
a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

floor.
top-side of the bottom.
vapor space.
vapor-liquid interface.

In a 98% sulfuric acid tank, corrosion often occurs at the vapor-liquid interface.
This is the result of:
a.
b.
c.
d.

87.

chlorides.
halogens.
hydrocarbons.
hydrogen sulfide.

In a 98% sulfuric acid tank, corrosion often occurs in the:

a.
b.
c.
d.

86.

floor.
nozzles.
shell.
vapor space.

In sour services, corrosive vapors are formed when moisture and air mixes with:
a.
b.
c.
d.

85.

API 653.
API 2015 & 2016.
NACE 92-432.
NACE 99-121.

behind the tank seal.

inside nozzles.
at the center of the floor.
on the entire shell.

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88.

Which carbon steels are the most susceptible to hydrogen blistering?

a.
b.
c.
d.

89.

Caustic stress corrosion cracking becomes prevalent in carbon steel when the
temperature exceeds:
a.
b.
c.
d.

90.

grounding devices disconnected.

floor sandblasted to a NACE 1 finish.
floating roof legs placed at the low leg settings.
scanning personnel tested to demonstrate their ability to use this
equipment.

A statistical method is used to determine the probable minimum remaining

thickness. Typically how much of the floor is scanned to gather info for the
statistical analysis?
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

MSTS

MFL (Magnetic Flux Leakage.

MFL (Magnetic Flux Leakage) with UT follow-up in suspect areas.
Spot UT with a statistical evaluation.
Visual with a pit gauge.

Prior to performing a tank floor scan it is a good idea to have the:

a.
b.
c.
d.

92.

40 oF.
125 oF.
150 oF.
200 oF.

A common way to completely inspect a tank floor is by:

a.
b.
c.
d.

91.

Those with mill scale.

Those with dissimilar materials.
Those that are non-normalized.
Those with laminations and slag inclusions.

0.2 5%
0.2 10%
5-10%
5-25%
10-25%

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93.

A statistical method is used to determine the probable minimum remaining

thickness. What part of the floor should be included in the statistical analysis?
a.
b.
c.
d.

94.

95.

When is a statistical analysis of a tank floor effective?

a.
b.
c.

Tanks on pads that may have been contaminated with corrosion fluids
Tanks with a Galvanic CP system
Tanks on pads that have a number clay balls (thanks Tankees for tracking

d.

Tanks on pads that have uniform consistency

only top-side corrosion on non-coated floors.

only top-side & bottom-side corrosion on non-coated floors.
only top-side corrosion on coated and non-coated floors.
both top-side & bottom-side corrosion on coated & non-coated floors.

MFL scanning equipment may miss:

a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

bulges.
depressions.
bulges or depressions
bulges and depressions.

MFL scanning equipment is useful for finding:

a.
b.
c.
d.

98.

mechanical pencil.
pocket knife.
pocket ruler.
thumb imprint in the pit.

Accelerated tank floor corrosion may occur at:

a.
b.
c.
d.

97.

that in our part during installation!)

Pits depth can be estimated by use of a:

a.
b.
c.
d.

96.

Outer circumference by the shell

An X pattern across the tank
Samples around the tank not exceeding 32 apart
Center of the tank

uniform corrosion.
bottom-side pits.
small diameter pits.
corrosion within 6 of a weld.

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99.

Which part of the tank shell is considered the highest stressed?

a.
b.
c.
d.

100.

One method to use when checking the shell for cracks is to put penetrant on one
side of the shell and developer on the other. How long might it take to detect a
crack?
a.
b.
c.
d.

101.

holiday testing.
MFL.
pressure test.
statistical analysis.

Which of the following makes a very bad day for an inspector? (Note! If you

miss this you are not ready for the API 653 exam.)

a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

10 minutes
1 hours
4 hours
24 hours

One method to use to check a tank lining is:

a.
b.
c.
d.

102.

Shell near nozzles

Shell-to-bottom area
Shell-to-roof area
Vertical welds

During an internal inspection you find a bottom with absolutely no top-side

corrosion.
Reviewing tank settlement readings and finding that the whole tank has
settled about 1/4 in uniform settlement.
You calculate that the maximum corrosion rate on the shell is 0.0001 ipy.

(yes 0.1 mpy)

You performed you first holiday test on a tank lining and found 537
holidays. Look what I found. Then someone points out that each of the
holidays looks a bit burned, and then they explain that these 537
holidays are the result of you having the detectors voltage set too high.
You burned up a good lining. (should have read the directions).

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103.

Which of the following methods should not be used on a glass-lined tank? (Note!
Another question if you miss, dont take the API 653 exam.) holiday testing.
a.
b.
c.
d.

104.

What type of lined tanks should be painted on the external with a unique color or
stencil a warning to indicate they have a special lining?
a.
b.
c.
d.

105.

throughout the columns

at the 30 level, with a corrosion rate of 4 mils per year
at the 30 level, with a corrosion rate of 8 mils per year
at the 30 level, with an unpredictable corrosion rate

Eddy current
Light hammer taps
Hard hammer taps
16 lb. sledge hammer taps

Steam heating coils should be inspected using either RT or UT to detect:

a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

Corrosion
Corrosion
Corrosion
Corrosion

What is a good method to check the soundness of the roofs structural members
and check the tightness of roof bolting?
a.
b.
c.
d.

107.

All lined tanks

Glass-lined
Lead-lined
Rubber-lined

A band of corrosion around the entire tank shell is found on a cone roof tank.
The corroded band is about 30 above the floor. The corrosion rate in this area
is 4 mils per year (0.004 ipy). The roof support columns should also be
inspected. What would you expect to see?
a.
b.
c.
d.

106.

Hammer testing
Visual
Visual
Visual

build-up of internal deposits.

caustic embrittlement.
condensate grooving.
hydrogen pitting.

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108.

A hydrotest is performed on a tank of high alloy. What is one major concern?

a.
b.
c.
d.

109.

Chloride stress corrosion cracking

Dirt in the water that will settle on the tank floor
Flange rating of the nozzle flanges
Oxygen pitting in the vapor space

If substituting an air-test for a tank hydrotest the air pressure should not
exceed:
a.
b.
c.
d.

2 inches of water.
2 ounces per square inch.
2 psig.
15 psig. (there it goes a UFTR an Unidentified Flying Tank Roof! Oops!)

Section 8
1.

Which of the following is not a RPB (release prevention barrier)?

a.
b.
c.
d.

2.

When visual inspection is performed, the inspectors eyes should be within:

a.
b.
c.
d.

3.

12 inches of the surface to be examined.

24 inches of the surface to be examined.
36 inches of the surface to be examined.
as close as the inspectors truck can get to the surface to be examined.

When visual inspection is performed, the inspectors eyes should be looking

relatively straight-on to the surface. When inspecting the surface the
inspectors eyes should not be at an angle that is less than:
a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

Concrete reinforced pad

Double bottom tank
Effective bottom side CP
Under-tank liner (yes a diaper!)

10 degrees.
30 degrees.
45 degrees.
60 degrees.

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4.

When visual inspection is performed, the amount of light needed for general
viewing should be at least:
a.
b.
c.
d.

5.

When visual inspection is performed, the amount of light needed for inspecting
small anomalies should be at least:
a.
b.
c.
d.

6.

15 foot-candles.
30 foot-candles.
50 foot-candles.
100 foot-candles.

A high-penetrating oil is used to check the initial weld pass on one side of the
bottom-to-shell weld. The minimum dwell time for this test is:
a.
b.
c.
d.

MSTS

15 foot-candles.
30 foot-candles.
50 foot-candles.
100 foot-candles.

10 minutes.
1 hour.
4 hours.
24 hours.

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API 653 Cert Prep

Section 2
1.

API 12A

2.

API 620

3.

API 650

4.

API 651

5.

API 652

6.

API 2000

7.

API 2015, API 2016

8.

UL-142

Section 5
1.

d (5.1)

2.

e (5.2.1)

3.

e (5.2.1)

4.

a (5.2.1)

5.

a) settlement so that soil

contacts shell,
b) CUI water wicking up
(5.2.1)

6.

b) Acidic

Section 3
2.

c) Marine Atmosphere

c (3.3)

Section 4
1.

d (4.1)

2.

c (4.2.2)

3.

b (4.2.2)

4.

a (4.2.3)

5.

c (4.2.3)

6.

a (4.2.3)

7.

d (4.2.3)

8.

b (4.2.3)

9.

a (4.2.3)

10.

b (4.2.3)

11.

d (4.2.3)

12.

b (4.2.3)

13.

c (4.3.1)

14.

a (4.3.2)

15.

a (4.3.2)

16.

d (4.3.2)

17.

b (4.3.3)

MSTS

a) Sulfurous (5.2.1)

7.

d (5.2.1)

8.

a (5.2.2)

9.

a) hydrogen sulfide vapor (5.2.2)

b) Water vapor
c) Oxygen

10.

a (5.2.2)

11.

a (5.2.2)

12.

c (5.2.2)

13.

d (5.3)

14.

b (5.3)

15.

d (5.3)

16.

a (5.4)

17.

d (5.4)

18.

b (5.4)

19.

d (5.4)

20.

b (5.4)

21.

a (5.4)

22.

d (5.4)

23.

e (5.5)

24.

a (5.5)

25.

c (5.5)

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API 575 Study Guide Answer Key

API 653 Cert Prep

Section 5

Section 7

(continued)

(continued)

26.

a (5.6)

9.

a (7.2.2)

27.

a (5.6)

10.

d (7.2.3)

28.

c (5.6)

11.

c (7.2.4)

29.

d (5.6)

12.

d (7.2.5)

30.

e (5.6)

13.

b (7.2.5)

31.

c (5.6)

14.

b (7.2.5)

15.

b (7.2.6)

16.

c (7.2.6)

Section 6
1.

d (6.1)

17.

2.

b (6.1)

d (7.2.6)

18.

b (7.2.7)

3.

d (6.2)

19.

4.

b (6.2)

d (7.2.7)

20.

c (7.2.7)

5.

a (6.2)

21.

6.

d (6.2)

a (7.2.8)

22.

d (7.2.8)

7.

a (6.2)

23.

8.

c (6.2)

b (7.2.8)

24.

b (7.2.8.1)

9.

a (6.2)

25.

10.

a Likelihood of Failure b
Consequence of Failure (6.3)

c (7.2.8.1)

26.

c (7.2.8.2)

11.

d (6.3)

27.

a (7.2.8.2)

12.

e (6.3)

28.

d (7.2.8.3)

13.

a (6.4)

29.

b (7.2.8.3)

30.

d (7.2.8.3)

31.

a (7.2.8.3)

32.

a (7.2.8.4)

33.

c (7.2.8.4)

34.

d (7.2.8.4)

35.

b (7.2.8.4)

36.

a (7.2.8.5)

37.

c (7.2.8.5)

38.

b (7.2.8.5)

39.

a (7.2.8.5)

Section 7
1.

a (7.1)

2.

b (7.1)

3.

b (7.1)

4.

a (7.1)

5.

a (7.1)

6.

c (7.2.1)

7.

d (7.2.1)

8.

d (7.2.1)

MSTS

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API 653 Cert Prep

Section 7

Section 7

(continued)

(continued)

40.

a (7.2.8.6)

71.

a (7.3.3)

41.

d (7.2.9)

72.

d (7.3.3)

42.

b (7.2.9)

73.

b (7.3.3)

43.

a (7.2.9)

74.

c (7.3.3)

44.

b (7.2.9)

75.

a (7.3.3)

45.

a (7.2.9)

76.

d (7.3.3)

46.

c (7.2.9)

77.

c (7.4.2)

47.

c (7.2.9)

78.

c (7.4.2)

48.

d (7.2.9)

79.

c (7.4.2)

49.

d (7.2.9)

80.

a (7.4.2)

50.

b (7.2.9)

81.

b (7.4.2)

51.

a (7.2.9)

82.

b (7.4.2)

52.

a (7.2.10)

83.

d (7.4.3)

53.

a (7.2.10)

84.

d (7.4.3)

54.

a (7.2.10)

85.

d (7.4.3)

55.

c (7.2.10)

86.

d (7.4.3)

56.

c (7.2.10)

87.

a (7.4.3)

57.

c (7.2.10)

88.

d (7.4.3)

58.

a (7.2.10)

89.

c (7.4.3)

59.

d (7.2.10)

90.

b (7.4.4)

60.

b (7.3.1)

91.

d (7.4.4)

61.

c (7.3.1)

92.

b (7.4.4)

62.

c (7.3.1)

93.

a (7.4.4)

63.

a (7.3.1)

94.

d (7.4.4)

64.

b (7.3.1)

95.

a (7.4.4)

65.

d (7.3.1)

96.

b (7.4.4)

66.

b (7.3.3)

97.

d (7.4.4)

67.

c (7.3.3)

98.

c (7.4.4)

68.

a (7.3.3)

99.

b (7.4.5)

69.

c (7.3.3)

100.

d (7.4.6)

70.

a (7.3.3)

101.

a (7.4.7)

MSTS

August 2012

API 575 Study Guide Answer Key

API 653 Cert Prep

Section 7
102.

d (7.4.7)

103.

a (7.4.7)

104.

b (7.4.7)

105.

c (7.4.8)

106.

b (7.4.8)

107.

c (7.4.9)

108.

a (7.5)

109.

a (7.5)

MSTS

Section 8

(continued)

1.

c (8.1)

2.

b (8.2.1)

3.

b (8.2.1)

4.

a (8.2.1)

5.

c (8.2.1)

6.

c (8.2.2)

August 2012