Ballot Comments and Resolution

Ballot: 3756 Name: API RP 545, RP for Lightning Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks Report Date: 6/28/2016 Closing Date: 6/27/2016

Proposal: To approve draft API RP 545, Recommended Practice for Lightning Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks for Flammable or
Clause
Sort Type of
Name Vote Subclause Paragraph Comment Proposed Change Comment Resolution
Key Comment
Number

1 Strunk, Jim Abstain 1.0 1.0 General Not my area of expertise. NONE

2 Comire, Donald Affirmative 1.1 General 1.1.1 Editorial replace "stroke" with "strike" This RP does not provide information that NONE - Stroke is the term used in API
will result in complete protection for all 545A and is defined in Section 3 ("strike"
possible lightning strike occurrences. is also an acceptable term, but not used
here).
2 Myers, Philip Affirmative 1.1.1 1.1.1 Editorial 1.1.1 The statement is not really clear and does not API 545 provides minimum requirements ADDRESSED
provide useful information. when used to facilitate the manufacture and
procurement of storage tanks for the
petroleum industry

3 Naidu, Pusp Affirmative 1.1.1 1st General Revise paragraph to ensure clarity This recommended practice (RP) provides ADDRESSED
Paragraph guidance, recommendations, and
information to assist owners/operators to
assess requirements and specify lightning
protection for storage tanks.

4 Naidu, Pusp Affirmative 1.2 1st Editorial Add the word "only" to ensure clarity This RP is applicable to conductive (metallic) ADDRESSED
Paragraph tanks only.

5 Shores, Marilyn Affirmative 1.3 Entire Technical This states that the RP shall apply to new or
reconstructed tanks and may be applied to existing
tanks. I tried to be proactive and spent hundreds of
thousands of dollars to install bypass conductors on
existing tanks only to find that they are maintenance
headaches and may be a connection point for lightning
or may spark within the unit itself. For these reasons, I
have been removing the ones that have been installed.
This RP may be applied to new,
reconstructed or existing tanks...
ADDRESSED - "SHALL apply to new or
reconstructed tanks" is the default for
new or reconstructed tanks, but this does
say "MAY be applied to existing tanks at
the discretion of the owner/operator. " The
reason for the term "may" is to avoid
immideate need to assess existing tanks.

I would like to see this RP as may be applied in all

cases, rather than "shall apply to new or reconstructed
tanks".
6 Kaiser, Bruce Negative 2 paragraph Editorial This standard provides the basis for lightning protection Strike the deletion of NFPA 780, Standard NONE - From TG comment resolution of
system design, and is required to support this RP. for the Installation of Lightning Protection 8/2015 NFPA 780 is not used in this
Systems. document as a "normative" reference, SC
Member comment is NFPA 780 does not
govern US AST requirements (US DOT
invokes API 650). Informative reference
does remain in the bibliography (although
NFPA reference was struck from API 650
and 653).
7 Lanzoni, Joe NonVoter 2 2 Editorial API/EI Research Report 545-A provides basic research Strike deletion so that 545-A remains as a NONE - From TG comment resolution
in support of standard. reference. 8/2015, the research report was not
removed, but relocated to the
Bibliography. The report does not qualify
as a "Normative Reference"

Page 1 of 10
 Ballot Comments and Resolution
Ballot: 3756 Name: API RP 545, RP for Lightning Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks Report Date: 6/28/2016 Closing Date: 6/27/2016

Proposal: To approve draft API RP 545, Recommended Practice for Lightning Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks for Flammable or
Clause
Sort Type of
Name Vote Subclause Paragraph Comment Proposed Change Comment Resolution
Key Comment
Number
8 Lanzoni, Joe NonVoter 2 9 Editorial NFPA 780 provides the standard for lightning protection Strike deletion so that 780 remains as a NONE - From TG comment resolution of
system design. reference. 8/2015 NFPA 780 is not used in this
document as a "normative" reference, SC
Member comment is NFPA 780 does not
govern US AST requirements (US DOT
invokes API 650). Informative reference
does remain in the bibliography (although
NFPA reference was struck from API 650
and 653).
9 McBride, James Affirmative 3 3.9 General There are covers on man ways, column wells, etc. that Review grounding requirements for covers ADDRESSED - For IFRTs beneath a fixed
are insulated from the floating roof by gaskets. Should on floating roofs. conductive roof there is no threat from
they be grounded to the floating roof? lightning "Bonding techniques to prevent
static and stray current discharge
between the floating roof and shell are
addressed in API 650, Annex H." For an
EFRT "4.2.2.1 All conductive parts of the
external floating roof shall be electrically
interconnected and bonded to the outer
tank structure. "

10 Pachuta, John Negative 3 3.12 Technical The existing definition seems incorrect. A RPB is NOT Release Prevention Barrier - A liquid- ADDRESSED - Desired to minimize
used to control a release, but rather to prevent a containment barrier installed underneath an changes. The revised definition is
release from occuring. aboveground storage tank that is sufficiently consistant with API 650 Annex I.
impervious to contain a leak in the tank
bottom. Most RPB systems include a means
of leak detection.
11 Naidu, Pusp Affirmative 3.12 Definition Technical Revise as suggsted A release prevention barrier is part of a ADDRESSED - Desired to minimize
containment system to control/detect escape changes, but see above and as revised.
of stored material and includes steel
bottoms, synthetic materials, clay liners, and
all other barriers or combination of barriers
placed in the bottom of or under an
aboveground storage tank, which have the
following functions: preventing the escape of
hydrocarbon material, and containing or
channeling released material for leak
detection.

12 Naidu, Pusp Affirmative 3.13 Shunt Technical Revise as suggested A short metallic conductor that electrically ADDRESSED - revised
connects the floating roof to the storage tank
shell.

13 Naidu, Pusp Affirmative 3.4 Definition Technical Revise as suggested A seal device, to reduce evaporative loss at ADDRESSED inserted "metallic"
the floating roof-to-shell interface, composed "(these are equipped with a conductor
of metallic components which provide a between the floating roof and shoe, or
electrically conductive path between the shunts, or both - see Section 4.2.4)."
floating roof and the tank shell.

Page 2 of 10
 Ballot Comments and Resolution
Ballot: 3756 Name: API RP 545, RP for Lightning Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks Report Date: 6/28/2016 Closing Date: 6/27/2016

Proposal: To approve draft API RP 545, Recommended Practice for Lightning Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks for Flammable or
Clause
Sort Type of
Name Vote Subclause Paragraph Comment Proposed Change Comment Resolution
Key Comment
Number
14 Naidu, Pusp Affirmative 3.5 Definition Technical Delete the words "is considered an internal floating-roof A tank constructed with an external floating See revision - a "covered" EFRT is
tank (IFRT)". roof (per API 650, Appendix Annex C) that is considered an IFRT. Inserted "is
covered with a metallic fixed roof (per API considered an internal floating-roof tank
650, Section 5 or Appendix Annex G (IFRT) with venting and eletrical bonding
Structurally Supported Aluminum Dome meeting requirements of API 650 Annex
Roof). H."

15 Naidu, Pusp Affirmative 3.6 Definition Technical Revise as suggested An open top aboveground storage tank with NONE - "Full contact" is not a requirement
a full contact floating roof in accordance of API 650 Annex C.
with API 650 Annex C.
16 Kitchel, Jon Affirmative 4 4.2.2.2 General A minimum of one bypass conductor does not take into Replace with - A minimum of two bypass NONE - There are multiple routes for
account redundancy. Failure of the single bypass conductors.. conductivity, but ignoring those, one (1)
conductor will disconnect the bonding of the floating 2/0AWG greatly exceeds capacity needed
roof to the tank shell. and provides a point to verify connection
without tank entry. Multiple connections
17 Kitchel, Jon Affirmative 4 4.2.7.2.5 General 1/0 cable is not typical. Why change gauge from the Recommend 2/0 if multiple bypass NONE - the 1/0 cable specified for multiple
2/0 requirement on a single bypass conductor. 2/0 also conductors. cable use is to indicate a minimum
more mechanically durable than the 1/0. equivalent cross section. TG desires to
allow reduced minimum section based on
the use of multiple cables.

18 Pachuta, John Negative 4 4.1.1 Editorial Delete the word "including". It is not needed in the This section includes tanks with a Fixed-roof ADDRESSED - "This section includes tanks
sentence. (which may be equipped with an Internal with a Fixed-roof ... and includes Covered
Floating Roof), and covered external floating- External Floating-roof Tanks." This
roof tanks. reinforces that "covered EFRTs" are
considered fixed roof tanks for lightning
protection.
19 Pachuta, John Negative 4 4.2.1 Technical Delete the reference to API Standard 2350. It serves An external floating roof is exposed to the ADDRESSED - relocated to stress
no real purpose in this paragraph. environment and at risk from natural events relevence to ignition when the tank is
such as lightning. The primary concern is operated high (or overfilled). Also inserted
from a lightning attachment at the top (rim) "NOTE" since a note results in no
of the tank shell in combination with a "requirements".
presence of combustible vapors.

20 Pachuta, John Negative 4 4.2.7.2 Editorial Delete the word "Section", as it is not needed. Minimum Conductor Requirement and ADDRESSED
Alternatives

21 Pachuta, John Negative 4 4.2.7.4 Editorial Rework the first sentence to avoid duplicating the use The bypass conductors and termination ADDRESSED
of phrases, "shall be of sufficient flexibility" and "shall be connections shall have sufficient corrosion
positioned". resistance and wear characteristics to
provide a minimum service life of 30 years.

Page 3 of 10
 Ballot Comments and Resolution
Ballot: 3756 Name: API RP 545, RP for Lightning Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks Report Date: 6/28/2016 Closing Date: 6/27/2016

Proposal: To approve draft API RP 545, Recommended Practice for Lightning Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks for Flammable or
Clause
Sort Type of
Name Vote Subclause Paragraph Comment Proposed Change Comment Resolution
Key Comment
Number
22 Metzdorf, Mark Negative 4.1 Entire Technical 4.1.4 states that low vapor pressure product tanks or It is assumed that for tanks without tight- ADDRESSED - with NOTE: See Annex B
section those with tight-fitting internal floating roofs do not fitting seals the answer is to fix the seal, so Presence of Flammable Vapors for
require further lighting protection for vents. What does this guidance should be provided, likely in a Internal Floating Roof Tanks regarding
this mean for tanks that have high vapor pressure NOTE referring to the relavent standards. various design, maintenance and
product or those that do not have tight-fitting seals? However, guidance should be provided in operating practices which may impact
normative text for tanks that have high vapor presence of flammable vapors. No
pressure product, even it is the obvious increased level of lightning protection will
corollary to 4.1.4 that additional lightning compensate for exposure of flammable
protection is required (and reference vapors.
relavent sections for shunts and bypass
conductors or other requirements).

23 Naidu, Pusp Affirmative 4.1.2 Types of Technical Add the word "aluminum" For fixed roof tanks (metallic cone or ADDRESSED - see revision of 4.1.1, this
Tanks aluminium dome) and internal floating-roof should address the metallic dome (steel
tanks (IFRTs), there is a possibility of or aluminum).
flammable vapors being present at the
vents.
24 Lanzoni, Joe NonVoter 4.2.2 4.2.2.2 Technical Multiple bypass conductors are recommended by API- Revert to original 545 recommendation of <<NONE>> Comment resolved with TG
545-A in Phase 2:x section 4.1, Phase 2:4 conclusion one bypass conductor per 30 meters of comment resolution (8/2015) Research
#3, Phase 2:23 section 3.6 paragraph 5 and Phase 2:63 circumference, with a minimum of two. supports a single bypass conductor as
section 4.4.1. Changing the bypass conductor sufficient. There are redundant bond
requirement from multiple to one increases the paths. Multiple bypass conductors are
likelihood of a sustained arc between the roof and shell. allowed - see 4.2.2.2.1.
The API-545-A Phase Two Executive Summary
recommends multiple bypass conductors. Changing the
bypass conductor requirement from multiple to one
CONTRADICTS APIs own research.

25 Myers, Philip Affirmative 4.2.2 4.2.2.4 General The vapor fabric flammability is not specified. Suggest ' All secondary seal metallic NONE - Requirement for seal vapor fabric
compoennts beneather the wiper tip shall be to be fire retardardant is not related to
insulated from the tank shell and the vapor lightning protection and is not currently a
fabric shall be fire retardant' requirement within API 650-C.

26 Metzdorf, Mark Negative 4.2.2.1 Second Technical The ladder should be independently bonded and should The ladder should either be independently ADDRESSED - Modified wording to fit with
sentence not rely on a bypass conductor since bypass conductor bonded to the tank shell, tank roof or both. API 650 Annex C.3.7, "Ladders shall be
design can vary. Also, see comment on 4.2.2.2, which grounded to both the roof and the
provides an alternative suggestion to allow gaugers platform with at least an AWG
the ladder to be bonded to the tank thell and 2/0,... non-tangling cable..."
tank roof and serve as a bypass conductor
(but not the sole bypass conductor). This is
substantiated in 545-A (Phase 2, 4.4.4).

27 Kaiser, Bruce Negative 4.2.2.2 paragraph Technical Clarification of location. Add the word "gauging" A minimum of one bypass conductors shall ADDRESSED - added the term "gauger's"
between "the" and "platform" be provided at the gauging platform... as used in API 650 Annex C see revision
of 4.2.2.2.

Page 4 of 10
 Ballot Comments and Resolution
Ballot: 3756 Name: API RP 545, RP for Lightning Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks Report Date: 6/28/2016 Closing Date: 6/27/2016

Proposal: To approve draft API RP 545, Recommended Practice for Lightning Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks for Flammable or
Clause
Sort Type of
Name Vote Subclause Paragraph Comment Proposed Change Comment Resolution
Key Comment
Number
28 Metzdorf, Mark Negative 4.2.2.2 Clause Technical This clause has been changed to only require 1 bypass Retain the requirement for a minimum of 2 NONE - There are multiple routes for
conductor, but no technical basis is provided for bypass conductors. Alternatively, the rolling conductivity of static, stray currents and
reducing the existing requirement for a minimum of two ladder could be used as a second bypass the slow component of lightning (the fast
bypass conductors. conductor, but would need to be bonded at component will not use the by-pass
both ends; i.e. bonded to the tank shell and conductor). An example of alternative
to the tank roof. Due to ladder connection conductive routes are metallic rainwater
methods, corrosion (rust) over time and drains, but ignoring those, one (1) 2/0
painting of surfaces, the physical connection AWG greatly exceeds capacity needed for
of the ladder to the tank shell and roof the slow component of a stroke. The
cannot be relied upon in all cases, thus technical basis for this is from API 545A
separate bonding is be required to ensure
the ladder is effectively bond.

29 Kaiser, Bruce Negative 4.2.2.2.1 paragraph Technical This section is redundant, not necessary and delete section ADDRESSED - multiples, if authorized by
misleading. the Purchaser, are addressed in 4.2.7.2.5.

30 Naidu, Pusp Affirmative 4.2.2.2.1 Bonding Technical Replace the word "specified" with "authorized" If authorized by the Purchaser, as an ADDRESSED - see revision of 4.2.7.2.5.
Requirement alternative or in addition to the minimum
s single bypass conductor, multiple bypass
conductors may be installed.

31 Kaiser, Bruce Negative 4.2.2.2.2 paragraph Technical This wording is redundant. delete all after "floating roof rainwater drain ADDRESSED - adjusted with informative
system." note, see revision of 4.2.2.2.2.

32 Naidu, Pusp Affirmative 4.2.2.2.2 Bonding Technical Revise as suggested If authorized by the Purchaser, bonding may ADDRESSED - see revision of 4.2.2.2.2.
Requirement be further supplemented with the use of an
s electrically bonded floating roof rainwater
drain system. This option will lead to higher
impedance and the decision by the
Purchaser to implement this option shall not
override the requirement for a minimum
single bypass conductor or bond at the
rolling ladder.

33 Kaiser, Bruce Negative 4.2.2.4 paragraph Technical Insulation is impractical and deteriorates over time and Change "insulated from" to "electrically NONE - This was reviewed with TG
use. Bonding is more reliable. bonded together and to" comment resolution (8/2015), TG
confirmed insulation of the secondary
seal components is desired (see 4.2.5).
Seals are typically inspected annually.
34 Metzdorf, Mark Negative 4.2.4 Last Technical The last sentence requires NEMA lugs to be used, but Remove "NEMA" from the sentence so that ADDRESSED - see revision of 4.2.4.1. and
sentence outside the US NEMA lugs may not be normal practice a poperly sized compression type lug is 4.2.7.2.4
or readily available and non-US AWG sized wires may required to allow for other than NEMA lugs
not have a corresponding NEMA lug. to be used.

35 Hiner, Larry Affirmative 4.2.6.3.1 4.2.6.3.1 General Refer to 4.2.7.2.5 instead of saying ( with reduced Minimum number of bypass conductors is ADDRESSED - see revision of 4.2.7.3 and
section) This phrase is not clear and one must search one unless additional are specified by the 4.2.7.2.5
other sections to understand the issue. It is not clear Purchaser. When multiple bypass
that the additional bypass conductors per 4.2.7.2.5 is conductors (per 4.2.7.2.5) are used, all
one or two. I think it is one. bypass conductors shall be approximately
evenly spaced around the tank shell.

Page 5 of 10
 Ballot Comments and Resolution
Ballot: 3756 Name: API RP 545, RP for Lightning Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks Report Date: 6/28/2016 Closing Date: 6/27/2016

Proposal: To approve draft API RP 545, Recommended Practice for Lightning Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks for Flammable or
Clause
Sort Type of
Name Vote Subclause Paragraph Comment Proposed Change Comment Resolution
Key Comment
Number
36 Hiner, Larry Affirmative 4.2.6.3.2 4.2.6.3.2 General Typo - Submerged shuts should be Submerged shunts Submerged shunts ADDRESSED - see revision of 4.2.6.3.2

37 Naidu, Pusp Affirmative 4.2.6.3.2 Shunts Technical Add the words "routine inspections" Submerged shunts shall have a minimum ADDRESSED - see revision of 4.2.6.3.2
width of 102mm (4 in.). Submerged shunts
shall be of a more robust design than
required for above-seal shunts in that they
are inaccessible for routine inspections while
the tank is in service.

38 Hiner, Larry Affirmative 4.2.6.3.4 4.2.6.3.4 General Remove the service life requirement - no other The shunts and termination connections ADDRESSED - see revision of 4.2.6.3.4.
components have this requirement. Change the first shall provide sufficient flexibility, cross We discussed removal of desired service
sentence to: section area, and corrosion resistance. life and this has been extensively
discussed; however, TG desires to leave
this here and in 4.2.7.4.

39 Lanzoni, Joe NonVoter 4.2.7 4.2.7.1 Technical Wording is redundant. Delete "single (minimum requirement see ADDRESSED - Revised 4.2.7.1, removed
4.2.2.2) or original 4.2.2.2.1 per above comment. This
>multiple (if specified for use, see was also reviewed with TG comment
4.2.2.2.1.)" resolution (8/2015).
40 Lanzoni, Joe NonVoter 4.2.7 4.2.7.3 Technical Maintaining a 150mm bend radius is not practical. Delete requirement. ADDRESSED - see 4.2.7.3 for revised text.
When the roof of an FRT is raised, a conventional
bypass conductor will be randomly splayed in
haphazard manner and coiled upon itself. It is
impossible to meet a specific bend radius requirement.

41 Kaiser, Bruce Negative 4.2.7.1 paragraph Technical This wording is redundant delete "single (minimum requirement see ADDRESSED - See above
4.2.2.2) or multiple (if specified for use, see
4.2.2.2.1.)"

42 Kaiser, Bruce Negative 4.2.7.1 paragraph Technical This wording is redundant and is covered elsewhere. delete "Each bypass conductor (individually) ADDRESSED - See above.
shall achieve the electrical resistance
defined in 4.2.7.3."
43 Lanzoni, Joe NonVoter 4.2.7.2 4.2.7.2.1 Technical Multiple bypass conductors are recommended by API- Revert to original 545 recommendation of NONE - This requirement was reviewed
545-A in Phase 2:x section 4.1, Phase 2:4 conclusion one bypass conductor per 30 meters of with TG comment resolution (8/2015). API
#3, Phase 2:23 section 3.6 paragraph 5 and Phase 2:63 circumference, with a minimum of two. 545A mentions in several places that a
section 4.4.1. Changing the bypass conductor single by-pass conductor (or the ladder)
requirement from multiple to one increases the as suitable, and this is also consistant
likelihood of a sustained arc between the roof and shell. with the minimum requirement of API 650
The API-545-A Phase Two Executive Summary C.3.7.
recommends multiple bypass conductors. Changing the
bypass conductor requirement from multiple to one
CONTRADICTS APIs own research.

44 Mahmood, Mohammed NonVoter 4.2.7.2 By pass Technical By pass conductor must be certified as to know the I recommend to remove the sentence does ADDRESSED - The conductor in 4.2.7.2.1
Conductor resistivity. Section 4.2.7.2.1 states that it does not not require manufacturer certification. would meet the resistance requirement,
require manufacturer certification On the other hand, but use of alternate material and / or
Section 4.2.7.3 says 0.03 ohms. section must be certified by the
manufacturer. See 4.2.7.2.2 & 4.2.7.3

Page 6 of 10
 Ballot Comments and Resolution
Ballot: 3756 Name: API RP 545, RP for Lightning Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks Report Date: 6/28/2016 Closing Date: 6/27/2016

Proposal: To approve draft API RP 545, Recommended Practice for Lightning Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks for Flammable or
Clause
Sort Type of
Name Vote Subclause Paragraph Comment Proposed Change Comment Resolution
Key Comment
Number
45 Manning, Jon NonVoter 4.2.7.2 By pass Technical By pass conductor must be certified as to know the . I recommend to remove the sentence ADDRESSED - The conductor in 4.2.7.2.1
conductor resistivity. Section 4.2.7.2.1 states that it does not does not require manufacturer certification. would meet the resistance requirement,
require manufacturer certification On the other hand, but use of alternate material and / or
Section 4.2.7.3 says 0.03 ohms. section must be certified by the
manufacturer. See 4.2.7.2.2 & 4.2.7.3
46 Myers, Philip Affirmative 4.2.7.2 4.2.7.2.6 General Change should to shall change should to shall ADDRESSED - see revision of 4.2.7.2.6

47 Kaiser, Bruce Negative 4.2.7.2.1 paragraph Technical This recaptures the consensus of the committee arrived add "4.2.7.2.1 Bypass Conductor Minimum NONE - This requirement was reviewed
at during multiple telephone meetings. Number. with TG comment resolution (8/2015). The
original requirement was for one, remains
The technical experts on lightning protection on the The tank floating roof shall be bonded to the so with API Standard 650 C and with much
NFPA 780 committee refused to even consider a tank shell by direct electrical connection discussion / review the TG concensus was
reduction in the number of bypass conductors required. through a minimum of two by-pass for the minimum of one - this is also
This should weigh heavily on the members of the API conductors, one run along, and electrically concensus of the SC ballot. The proposal
545 committee. bonded to, the rolling ladder, and one as far for further research was discussed at our
apart around the floating roof perimeter from TG meetings and is under consideration
The only justification submitted for a reduction was a the first as practicable. On tanks with a by API.
semantic misinterpretation of the Culham Report (API perimeter of greater than 250, additional
545A). bypass conductors shall be installed equally
spaced around the perimeter of the floating
Also the preliminary findings of the Tech-X report roof as follows: in geographical areas with
submitted in Houston strongly indicate the need to greater than .5 strikes per year per square
retain the number of bypass conductors contained in kilometer, additional by-pass conductors
both API 545 2009 edition and in NFPA 780, Chapter 7. shall be installed so the spacing between by-
pass conductors does not exceed 150. In
geographical areas with greater than 1.0
strikes per year per square kilometer,
additional by-pass conductors shall be
installed so the spacing between by-pass
conductors does not exceed 100."

48 Kaiser, Bruce Negative 4.2.7.2.1 paragraph Technical Wording is contained in the wrong paragraph. Add the word "A" before "conductor of 2/0 ADDRESSED replaced "The" with "A".
American Wire Gauge (AWG)..." and move Mantained separate requirement for
this sentence to the beginning of 4.2.7.2.2. alternate.

49 Metzdorf, Mark Negative 4.2.7.2.1 First Technical See comment on 4.2.2.2 regarding reduction of Change requirement per comment on NONE - TG agrees with TR545A that a
sentence minimum number of bypass conductors from two to 4.2.2.2 to require minimum of two bypass minimum of 1 of equivalent size as
one. conductors. historically required per API Standard 650
Annex C.3.7 is sufficient for the by-pass
conductor purpose.
50 Metzdorf, Mark Negative 4.2.7.2.4 Clause Technical The last sentence requires NEMA lugs to be used, but Remove "NEMA" from the sentence so that ADDRESSED - see revision of 4.2.4.1. and
outside the US NEMA lugs may not be normal practice a poperly sized compression type lug is 4.2.7.2.4
or readily available and non-US AWG sized wires may required to allow for other than NEMA lugs
not have a corresponding NEMA lug. to be used.

51 Hiner, Larry Affirmative 4.2.7.2.5 4.2.7.2.5 General Remove second sentence. Remove second sentence. ADDRESSED - see revision of 4.2.7.2.5
Spacing requirements for bypass conductors is stated
in 4.2.7.3.

Page 7 of 10
 Ballot Comments and Resolution
Ballot: 3756 Name: API RP 545, RP for Lightning Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks Report Date: 6/28/2016 Closing Date: 6/27/2016

Proposal: To approve draft API RP 545, Recommended Practice for Lightning Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks for Flammable or
Clause
Sort Type of
Name Vote Subclause Paragraph Comment Proposed Change Comment Resolution
Key Comment
Number
52 Kaiser, Bruce Negative 4.2.7.2.5 paragraph Editorial Addressing the number and spacing of bypass Delete this section. ADDRESSED - Removed 4.2.2.2.1.
conductors in this section is inappropriate. They are
addresses elsewhere.

53 Lieb, John Affirmative 4.2.7.2.5 4.2.7.2.5 General Since the provisions in this section are explicitly stated Change "Multiple bypass conductors shall ADDRESSED - see revision of 4.2.7.2.5
to be "not required", shouldn't "Multiple bypass be installed..." to "Multiple bypass and 4.2.7.3
conductors shall be installed..." read "Multiple bypass conductors should be installed..."
conductors should be installed..."
54 Shores, Marilyn Affirmative 4.2.7.2.6 Entire Technical If a bypass conductor is attached beneath the rolling The bypass conductor shall be bonded to ADDRESSED - see revision of 4.2.7.2.6
ladder, it may restrict the operating volume of the tank. the rolling ladder, if present.
I believe we should leave in the information about the
bonding to the rolling ladder, but leave the positioning to
the contractor, engineer or owner/operator.

55 Kaiser, Bruce Negative 4.2.7.3 paragraph Technical Correct heading. Delete "Number and" from title. ADDRESSED - changed title

56 Kaiser, Bruce Negative 4.2.7.3 paragraph Technical This wording is redundant. Bypass conductor number Delete "When multiple bypass ADDRESSED - see revision of 4.2.7.3
and spacing is covered elsewhere. conductors...minimum of two."

57 Mahmood, Mohammed NonVoter 4.2.7.3 Electrical Technical When multiple bypass conductors (with reduced With a minimum of two should be removed ADDRESSED - see revision of 4.2.7.3
resistance section) are used, these should be evenly spaced
around the tank circumference with a minimum of two.

58 Manning, Jon NonVoter 4.2.7.3 By pass Technical . All cable bends shall be at a minimum 150mm (6) With a minimum of two should be removed ADDRESSED - see revision of 4.2.7.3
conductor radius. When multiple bypass conductors (with reduced
section) are used, these should be evenly spaced
around the tank circumference with a minimum of two.

59 Metzdorf, Mark Negative 4.2.7.3 Clause Technical This clause only requires a resistance to be certified by Suggest that a recommendation or option for
the manufacturer, but the design life of the bypass field testing after installation/commissioning
conductor(s) is 30 years, so some testing would be be added and a suggested interval for
reasonable to ensure electrical continuity and sufficient restesting be provided. This section should
conductivity after installation. include a note about using test equipment in
a potentially flammable (hazardous)
atmostphere. It is suggested that a
recommended method for testing (e.g. digital
low-resistnace ohm-meter) be provided with
a minimum testing interval of 5 years. API
653 is referenced in Clause 6, but does not
provide intervals for visual inspection of
grounding and bonding equipment or require
any electrical testing. This inspection
information could also be put into Cluase 6,
the existing (new in this revision) note is
inadequate.
SEE REVISION - TG discussed field
testing as being not viable to establish
requirments for performing while the tank
is in-service. The NOTE in clause 6 is
"informative" and therefore establishes no
requirement. Regarding inspection of
seals, this is a local regulatory
requirement and in the USA seal gaps
must be physically measured at least
annually. Regarding API 653 inspections,
this is something to be added to a check
list, but the out-of-service inspection may
be at 20 year intervals.

Page 8 of 10
 Ballot Comments and Resolution
Ballot: 3756 Name: API RP 545, RP for Lightning Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks Report Date: 6/28/2016 Closing Date: 6/27/2016

Proposal: To approve draft API RP 545, Recommended Practice for Lightning Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks for Flammable or
Clause
Sort Type of
Name Vote Subclause Paragraph Comment Proposed Change Comment Resolution
Key Comment
Number
60 Shores, Marilyn Affirmative 4.2.7.3 Entire Technical We provide the number and electrical resistance Each bypass conductor, including NONE - This bond to ground is not
needed, but do not mention that the bypass units need connectors, shall have a maximum end-to- required to be Class 1, Div. 1 NOTE: This
to be suitable for Class 1, Div. 1 environments. end electrical resistance of 0.03 ohms, as comment provider asked that any future
certified by the Manufacturer and be rated research include testing of various by-
pass conductor details ensure they are
suitable for the area classification.

61 Kitchel, Jon Affirmative 5 5.3 Note General EI/API 545-A was removed from the reference section Remove from note in section 5 or add back NONE - The reference is in the
2. Cannot be referenced in this note in section 5. in the reference section 2. Bibliography Section 2 is reserved for
Normative References and 545A is not
62 Foster, Laurence NonVoter 545 545 General affirmative with no comments Normative.
NONE A note is "informative" so this

63 Kaiser, Bruce Negative 545 paragraph General API 545 as revised, is seriously flawed technically, and Delete the entire document. NONE - This was reviewed with TG
should be rejected. RP 545 should revert to the 2009 comment resolution (8/2015) and
edition. The 545 committee should be reconstituted consensus was reached within the TG.
next revision cycle with a technically competent and
neutral chair, develop a coherent outline based upon
NFPA 780, Chapter 7, and re-write the RP based on
legitimate lightning protection principles. In the interim,
the work suggested in the Tech-X proposal submitted in
Houston should be funded, and the results incorporated
into a technically valid update to 545.

There is neither need for nor virtue in passing a

technically deficient document. The existing edition is
adequate, and will work just fine for another few years.
When we have the results from the Tech-X modeling,
we can start again in the next revision cycle, this time
reorganizing the document for clarity and ease of use,
and incorporating valid science.

64 Pachuta, John Negative 6 1st Technical The reference to "locally used inspection program" is Below-deck inspections should coincide with ADDRESSED - See revision to make clear
Paragraph vague and offers little in the way of direction. Consider API 653 out-of-service inspections, or that seals are to be regularly inspected in
modifying the paragraph to coincide with opportunity. whenever safe access to the underside of compliance with local requirements;
the floating roof is available. however, we are not allowed to require
use of API 653, and must allow the option.

65 Mahmood, Mohammed NonVoter 6.0 Periodic Technical It is recommended that seals be periodically inspected In order to avoid the conflict, standard ADDRESSED - "Inspection shall be
for integrity / control of combustible vapors (this is should explain the definition of periodic. performed with both scope and frequency
accomplished by following API 653 and local as needed to meet local inspection
procedures). requirements", is intended to cover a local
jurisdictional requirement (which may
have special requirements, beyond that of
the Standard).

66 Manning, Jon NonVoter 6.0 Periodic Technical : It is recommended that seals be periodically inspected : In order to avoid the conflict, standard ADDRESSED - "Inspection shall be
inspection for integrity / control of combustible vapors (this is should explain the definition of periodic. performed with both scope and frequency
accomplished by following API 653 and local as needed to meet local inspection
procedures). requirements", is intended to cover a local
jurisdictional requirement (which may
have special requirements, beyond that of
the Standard).
Page 9 of 10
 Ballot Comments and Resolution
Ballot: 3756 Name: API RP 545, RP for Lightning Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks Report Date: 6/28/2016 Closing Date: 6/27/2016

Proposal: To approve draft API RP 545, Recommended Practice for Lightning Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks for Flammable or
Clause
Sort Type of
Name Vote Subclause Paragraph Comment Proposed Change Comment Resolution
Key Comment
Number
67 Goodman, Mark Abstain all all General Abstaining on this vote. NONE

68 Lieb, John Affirmative Annex A Table A.2 Editorial The header in Table A.2 should read "Percentage of Change "Percentage of Cases Exceeding ADDRESSED - good catch
Cases Exceeding Tabulated Value" instead of Tabulated Valve" to "Percentage of Cases
"Percentage of Cases Exceeding Tabulated Valve". Exceeding Tabulated Value".

69 Naidu, Pusp Affirmative Forward 4th Editorial Revise paragraph to ensure clarity This RP is not intended to cover storage ADDRESSED - see revision
Paragraph tanks that are located in regions subject to
statutory regulations for lightning protection
that more stringent than the specifications in
this RP.
Endof
Comm
ents

Page 10 of 10