Professional Documents
Culture Documents
COURSE NOTES
VOLUME – 2
(QUESTION BANK)
CONDUCTED FOR
CONDUCTED BY
CONDUCTED BY
Statement
This course manual has been prepared by Asian Training Academy, Pune; INDIA., strictly for the use
of attendees to API-653 Examination Preparation Course from Reliance Industries Ltd. This manual
is to be used as an aid to assist those persons wishing to take the API-653 Aboveground Storage Tank
Inspector Certification Examination. This manual is not all-inclusive and should not be used in place
of any recognized Code or Standard. The information contained in this manual was obtained from the
author’s research and experience and is intellectual property of the author.
This manual or any part of it shall not be reproduced by any means without the written consent
of Asian Training Academy, Pune.
VOLUME-2
QUESTION BANK
INTRODUCTION
This material is to help prepare you for the API 653 Certification Examination.
Your degree of proficiency in this material will be tested throughout the course.
The below listed references are indicated as the source of the answers next to each
question. To best prepare for the course and the examination, you should strive to
memorize these questions and answers.
REFERENCE INDEX
ANS : (b)
ANS : (c)
3) A corroded roof plate is found to have an average thickness of 0.1" measured over an area of
100 sq. inches. This area shall be :-
ANS : (b)
(a) A joint between two members that intersect at an angle between 0 degrees (a butt joint)
and 90 degrees (a corner joint).
(b) A joint between two abutting parts lying in approximately the same plane that is welded
from both sides.
(c) A joint whose size is equal to the thickness of the thinner jointed member.
(d) A joint between two overlapping members in which the overlapped edge is welded.
ANS : (b)
5) An external floating roof shall be provided with at least one manhole having a minimum
inside diameter of __________ inches.
ANS : (c)
ANS : (a)
7) A full hydrostatic test (when required) shall be held for __________ hours :-
ANS : (a)
ANS : (b)
9) A hot tap in a 1.25" thick tank with a minimum metal temperature of 65oF at time of hot tap,
without having material toughness data is :-
ANS : (a)
ANS : (b)
11) A liquid penetrant examiner must have vision to enable him to read Jagger Type 2 standard
chart at a distance of not less than 12 inches and is capable of distinguishing and
differentiating contrast between colours used. Examiners shall be checked __________ to
ensure that they meet these requirements :-
ANS : (c)
ANS : (d)
13) A radiograph is made using an X-ray source and two films in each film holder. For composite
viewing, each film of the composite shall have a minimum density of :-
ANS : (d)
14) A reconstructed tank with a total height of 25' has been determined to have an out-of-
plumbness of 2-3/4". This is :-
ANS : (a)
15) A riveted tank shell with a butt joint has 3 rows. What is the joint efficiency ?
ANS : (b)
16) A SAW welding operator is attempting to quality by radiography on a 6 inch thick test
coupon. Elongated slag inclusions are measured to be 0.2 inch long.
(a) Must weld 2 additional coupons; (b) meets the requirements (passes)
(c) slag must not exceed 0.5" (d) slag is not acceptable.
ANS : (b)
ANS : (b)
(a) made with atleast 2 passed; (b) may be made with 1 pass
(c) shall be atleast 3 / 16" (d) both (a) and (c) above
ANS : (a)
19) A single film technique was used to make a radiograph using a Cobalt-60 source. The
minimum permitted density in the area of interest is :
ANS : (b)
ANS : (b)
21) A tank bottom depression is 9.125" deep, radius of depression is 22.5 feet. What is the
maximum depth of depression ?
ANS : (d)
22) A tank bottom lining with a measured thickness of 15 mils should be tested with :-
ANS : (b)
23) A weld shall be unacceptable by Visal Inspection if the inspection shows which of the
following ?
24) A weld with a nominal thickness of 1.5 inch is to be radiographed using a film side
penetrameter, hole type. The penetrameter designation should be :-
(a) 25; (b) 30; (c) 35; (d) Both (a) and (b) are responsible;
ANS : (a)
25) A welder may deviate from the parameters specified in WPS if they are nonessential
variables :-
ANS : (c)
26) A welder qualifies in the 3G position on a plate coupon, he is then qualified to weld in the
position(s) on NPS 6 pipe :-
ANS : (b)
ANS : (b)
28) A welder's ID must be placed at intervals not exceeding along completed welds :-
ANS : (d)
29) A welding procedure qualified on ¼ inch thick plate can be used to weld groove welds in
materials from to :-
ANS : (d)
30) A welding procedure qualified on 3/8" thick plate can be used to weld groove welds in
materials :-
ANS : (b)
31) A welding procedure qualified under the 1965 ASME Code Section IX :
(a) Is obsolete;
(b) Is still applicable;
(c) Must be re-qualified every 3 years when code is re-issued;
(d) is not addressed by the code
ANS : (b)
32) Above-ground storage tank is defined as a stationary container with a barrel capacity greater
than :-
ANS : (c)
ANS : (c)
34) All tanks shall be given a formal visual external inspection by an inspector at least :-
REF : API-653-6.3.2.1
ANS : (b)
ANS : (b)
36) Anticipated minimum thickness of tank bottom where bottom / foundation design provides
for leak detection and containment is :-
ANS : (b)
ANS : (d)
38) At what design metal temperature must impact tests be made for all weld metal and
procedures to be used ?
(a) Below 32oF; (b) Below 20oF; (c) Below 15oF; (d) Below 10oF.
ANS : (b)
ANS : (a)
40) Base metals are grouped into groupings according to their welding characteristics :-
ANS : (d)
41) Based on a measured corrosion of 0.006" annually and using a corrosion allowance of 0.120",
how long before the next UT thickness measurements are required ?
ANS : (d)
42) Based on variable-design point method, calculate the first course thickness, exclusive of CA,
for a 200 foot diameter tank, purchaser specified specific gravity of 1, 56 feet in height, using
96 inch courses with material stress of 23,000 psi. Design is based on test conditions :-
ANS : (c)
43) Before elevating the operating temperature of a shell tank to a temperature above 200 degrees
F, what document must be considered ?
ANS : (b)
ANS : (d)
ANS : (b)
46) Bottoms exceeding 100' diameter in tanks operating above 200oF shall have :-
ANS : (a)
ANS : (b)
ANS : (b)
ANS : (d).
ANS : (c)
51) Describe how a liquid penetrant examination should be performed in order to detect
discontinuities, which are open to the surface :-
(a) clean the part, apply the developer, apply the penetrant, remove excess penetrant, inspect
the part, clean the part;
(b) clean the part, apply the penetrant, remove excess penetrant, apply the developer, inspect
the part, clean the part;
(c) clean the part, apply the developer, apply the penetrant, inspect the part, remove excess
penetrant, clean the part;
(d) clean the part, apply the developer, apply the penetrant, inspect the part, clean the part.
ANS : (b)
52) Tank with 17 mils of the original 25 mils corrosion allowance still remaining after 15 years ?
(a) 5 years; (b) 15 years; (c) 23.875 years; (d) 31.875 years.
ANS : (b)
53) Determine the maximum allowable height for a 90 foot diameter tank based on a maximum
shell plate thickness of 0.5 inch and maximum allowable stress of 21,000 psi, with a joint
efficiency of 0.85, and no corrosion allowance :-
ANS : (c)
(a) potential floating roof hang up; (b) lack of circularity at the top;
(c) oval shape at the top; (d) all of the above.
ANS : (d)
ANS : (c)
56) During an inspection, you are required to calculate the retirement thickness for the bottom
course of a tank. The information available is as follows :-
Diameter = 150 feet
Height = 40 feet
Specific gravity of contents = 0.77
Joint efficiency = 0.7
Material tensile strength is unknown
Material tensile strength is unknown;
Material maximum allowable stress is unknown.
ANS : (c)
57) During hydrostatic test, no less than ______ settlement measurement points shall be surveyed :-
ANS : (a)
ANS : (c)
(a) those in which a change, as described in the specific variables, is considered to affect the
mechanical properties of the weldment;
(b) variable are listed in section IX of the ASME CODE;
(c) both (a) and (b) above.
(d) are the same for all procedures.
ANS : (c)
60) Examiners who perform ultrasonic examinations under API-650 shall be qualified and certified
by the manufacturers as meeting the requirements of certification as outlined in ?
ANS : (b)
61) Except as modified in Section 6 of API-650, the radiographic method employed shall be in
accordance with which Section and article of the ASME code ?
ANS : (c)
62) Exclusive of corrosion allowance, what is the minimum nominal thickness for all new
construction bottom plates?
(a) 1/2 inch; (b) 1/4 inch; (c) 3/16 inch; (d) 5/8 inch.
ANS : (b)
ANS : (b)
ANS : (c)
65) Find the capacity of a small tank, with a joint efficiency of 0.85, specific gravity = 1.0, no
corrosion allowance, diameter is 40 feet, height is 30 feet with 5 completed 72" courses.
ANS : (c)
ANS : (c)
ANS : (d)
68) For a 30 inch shell manhole, 0.5 inches thick shell and reinforcing plate, what minimum neck
thickness is required ?
ANS : (d)
69) For an existing 150 foot diameter storage tank, which has been in service for 28 years, known
joint efficiency is 1.0, contents have been the same, with a specific gravity of 1.0, material
yield of plate is 30,000 and tensile strength is 55,000, liquid fill level is 50 feet, calculate the
minimum allowable thickness for the second course :-
70) For butt-welded joints in which the thinner shell plate is 3/8 inch or less, how many spot
radiographs shall be taken in the first 10 feet of completed vertical joint of each type and
thickness welded by each welder or welding operator ?
ANS : (a)
71) For dome roofs that are flanged, the radius of curvature is limited by the depth of the roof,
including the crown and knuckle depth. What is t he maximum roof depth for a shop
assembled cone roof 10 feet in diameter?
ANS : (c)
72) For impact testing materials, what is the minimum transverse value of Group IV materials,
1.5" thick ?
ANS : (c)
73) For impact testing materials, what is the minimum longitudinal value for a 1.8" thick A-516-70
as rolled material for a WPS ?
ANS : (c)
74) For new or repaired shell horizontal joints, how many radiographs shall be taken for each 50
feet of horizontal joint, not including those required at intersections of vertical and horizontal
joints ?
ANS : (a)
75) For welds that attach nozzles, manholes, cleanout openings and permanent attachments,
undercut shall not exceed ______ inch.
ANS : (d)
76) Foundations of relocated tanks specified as true to horizontal plane without ring walls shall be
true :-
ANS : (c)
77) From what type of material should shims be fabricated when they are to be used to radiograph
welds ?
(a) Malleable materials capable of being drilled;
(b) From the same heat number as the material being inspected;
(c) Fabricated of radiographically similar material to the object to be inspected;
(d) All of the above.
ANS : (c)
78) Generally, tank bottom linings cover the entire tank bottom and extend ____ inches up the shell
of the tank :-
ANS : (c)
ANS : (c)
ANS : (d)
81) How does the calculation of minimum thickness for a riveted tank shell differ from that of a
welded tank shell :-
(a) The formula for the calculation of minimum thickness of a riveted tank shell is the same
as for a welded tank shell except that the maximum allowable stress (S) is 21,000 lbs /
sq. inch and the efficiency equals 1 for the shell plate 6 inches away from rivets;
(b) The formula for the calculation of minimum thickness of a riveted tank shell is exactly the
same for a welded tank;
(c) The formula for the calculation of minimum thickness of a riveted tank shell is the same
as for a welded tank shell except the minimum allowable stress (S) is 21,000 lbs /s q.
inch and the efficiency equals 0.85 for the shell plate 6 inches away from the rivets.
(d) API does not set minimum thickness.
ANS : (a)
82) How many equally spaced measurement are required for the thickness averaging technique ?
ANS : (b)
83) How many impact specimens must be broken for an average value for P1, Group 1, 2, 3 material?
ANS : (b)
84) How many inches must project beyond the outside edge of the weld attaching t he bottom sketch
plate to the shell plate ?
ANS : (d)
85) How many settlement measurement points are required for a tank that measures 200 ft. in
diameter ?
ANS : (c)
86) How many specimens and impact tests must be performed from a single test coupon or test
location ?
ANS : (c)
87)How many specimens must be broken for an average value for P1, Group 1, 2, 3 material ?
ANS : (b)
ANS : (b)
ANS : (c)
90) If penetrameters are not placed adjacent to the welds, what rules apply ?
(a) The penetrameter should be placed on the source side of the material being radiographed.
(b) The penetrameter may be placed on the film side of the material being radiographed.
(c) Lead letter "F" at least as high as the identification number is placed adjacent to the film
side penetrameter;
(d) All of the above.
ANS : (d)
ANS : (a)
92) In a riveted tank shell, a butt joint has 3 rows. What is the joint efficiency ?
ANS : (b)
ANS : (b)
94) In general, if shell thickness does not exceed ____ inch, it does not require further assessment for
brittle fracture :-
ANS : (d)
95) In tank floors, the maximum depth of bulge or edge settlement is dependent upon :-
(a) Floor thickness; (b) The radius of an inscribed circle in the area;
(c) tank diameter; (d) Tank height.
ANS : (b)
ANS : (d)
ANS : (a)
98) _____ inspection may be substituted for a program of external UR thickness measurements:-
(a) Hydrostatic;
(b) External;
(c) Acoustic;
(d) Internal.
ANS : (d)
(a) Servicing;
(b) (b) Removing oil from seals;
(c) Action to prevent chattering;
(d) (d) Only (a) and (c) above.
ANS : (d)
ANS : (b)
ANS : (d)
ANS : (d)
103) Internal inspection intervals are determined by corrosion rates. Normally, the corrosion rates
govern :-
(a) roof;
(b) upper shell;
(c) bottom;
(d) lower shell.
ANS : (c)
ANS : (d)
ANS : (a)
106) Intervals between internal inspections shall be determined by the corrosion rate. Normally,
bottom corrosion rates control the inspection interval. However, in no case shall the interval
inspection interval exceed ____ years :-
ANS : (c)
107) Letters and numerals on nameplates shall not be less than inch high.
ANS : (a)
ANS : (b)
109) Magnetic particle examination shall be performed in accordance with a written procedure that
is in compliance with the requirements of :-
ANS : (a)
ANS : (b).
111) Minimum spacing between toes of welds for a radius (R) on a penetration and other welds of
1.25" plate must be :-
ANS : (b)
112) Minimum thickness calculation for shells of tanks 200 ft. or less in diameter shall be done
using ____ :-
ANS : (d)
113) Acceptance criteria for NDT of reconstructed tanks are to be in accordance with :-
(a) ASME Section VIII; (b) ASME Section V;
(c) API 653; (d) API 650.
ANS : (d)
114) Of the following welding processes, which one is not permitted for welding on above ground
storage tanks :-
ANS : (c)
115) On plates more than 3/16 inch thick, the fillet weld thickness shall not be less than 1/3 the
thickness of the thinner plat at the joint and shall be atleast :-
(a) 1/2 inch; (b) 1/4 inch; (c) 3/16 inch; (d) 9/32 inch.
ANS : (c)
116) On the drawing that the manufacturer shall furnish the purchase, you would expect to see which
of the following information :-
(a) The required shell thickness for both the design condition (including corrosino
allowance) and the hydrostatic test condition;
(b) The nominal thickness used;
(c) The material specification and allowable stresses;
(d) All the above.
ANS : (d)
117) Opening in tank shells larger than required to accommodate a _____ inch standard-weight
coupling shall be reinforced :-
(a) 1.0 inch; (b) 1.5 inch; (c) 2.0 inch; (d) 2.5 inch.
ANS : (c)
ANS : (c)
119) Per API 650, calculation of shell thickness by the 1-foot method cannot be used for tanks :-
(a) under 200 ft. in diameter; (b) over 200 ft. in diameter;
(c) under 150 ft. in diameter. (d) of any size.
ANS : (b)
(a) grinding and out area; (b) penning over affected area;
(c) applying additional weld bead over area; (d) mechanical caulking.
ANS : (c)
ANS : (d)
122) Plate material thicker than ____ inches shall be normalised or quench tempered, killed, made to
fine grain practice and impact tested :-
ANS : (c)
123) Plates found to be thinner than those in the course above it are :-
(a) not allowed;
(b) permitted;
(c) permitted provided they were so designed;
(d) need to be calculated for suitability for service.
ANS : (a)
124) Procedure qualification for welding on a tank of unknown or obsolete material shall be done
using test coupons of :-
ANS : (d)
ANS : (d)
ANS : (d)
ANS : (a)
128) Reinforcement pads shall be tested by applying pressure between the tank shell and
reinforcement plate using the telltale hole. How much pressure is used to perform this
inspection:-
ANS : (b)
ANS : (b)
130) Resistivity of surrounding soil may be used to determine the probability of corrosion on tank
bottoms. Which of the following resistivity ranges is considered to be very corosive :-
(a) < 500; (b) 500 – 1000; (c) 1000 – 2000; (d) < 10,000
ANS : (a)
131) Rewelding vertical joints requires cutting horizontal welds back from the joint a minimum of
____ inches :-
ANS : (d)
ANS : (c)
133) Routine visual inspection by Owner / Operator personnel shall be done at least :-
ANS : (c)
134) With a vertical sweep board 36 inches long, banding on reconstructed tanks shall not exceed
____ inch(s) :-
(a) 1/2";
(b) 3/4";
(c) 1";
(d) 1 ½".
ANS : (c)
(a) the lesser of every 5 years of 1/2 corrosion rate of the shell life;
(b) the lesser of every 5 years or 1/4 corrosion rate of the shell life;
(c) the lesser of every 10 years or 1/2 corrosion rate of the shell life;
(d) the lesser of every 10 years or 1/4 corrosion rate of the shell life.
ANS : (c)
(a) between the outer periphery of the roof and the tank shell;
(b) around columns, ladders and gauge pipes that penetrate the deck;
(c) the seal shall be flexible;
(d) all of the above.
ANS : (d)
ANS : (d)
ANS : (d)
139) Tack welds shall be made using a procedure qualified in accordance with ASME Section IX :-
ANS : (b)
ANS : (a)
ANS : (a)
142) Tests for leaks in reinforcing plate welds require ____ psig :-
(a) upto 2.5; (b) upto 15; (c) upto 21; (d) upto 30.
ANS : (b)
143) The "critical zone" for tank bottom repairs is the area within the annular plate ring, within
inches of the shell or within inches of the inside edge of the annular plate ring:-
ANS : (c)
144) The "L" in actual thickness determination for each shell course :
ANS : (c)
ANS : (a)
146) The API 653 standard covers the maintenance inspection, repairs, alteration, relocation and
reconstruction of tanks constructed to which one of the following standards :-
(a) ASME; (b) API 651; (c) API 65; (d) API 650.
ANS : (d)
ANS : (c)
148) The complete or partial removal and replacement of more than 12 inches of a vertical weld
joining shell plates is considered a :-
ANS : (d)
ANS : (d)
150) The determining factor for intervals between internal and external inspections :-
ANS : (b)
ANS : (c)
ANS : (a)
ANS : (b)
ANS : (d)
ANS : (d)
(a) that portion of the base metal which has not been melted;
(b) whose mechanical properties or micro structures have been altered by the heat of
welding;
(c) is least likely to contain discontinuities;
(d) both (a) and (b) above.
ANS : (d)
(a) size; (b) service history; (b) the manufacturer; (d) type of tank.
ANS : (b)
158) The lower flammable limit (LFL) is the concentration of a glammable vapour in air that will
ignite :-
ANS : (d)
159) The maximum acceptable undercutting for base metal in repaired or altered horizontal welds
is :-
ANS : (b)
160) The maximum acceptable undercutting for base metal in vertical welds is :-
ANS : (a)
161) The maximum interval between internal inspections shall not exceed ____ years :-
ANS : (b)
ANS : (a)
163) The minimum dimension for replacement shell plate is 12 times t or ____ inches :-
ANS : (d)
164) The minimum interval for external inspection by a qualified inspector is ____ years or at the
quarter corrosion-rate life of the shell, whichever is less :-
ANS : (b)
(a) On plate 3/16 inch tick, the weld shall be a full-fillet weld, and on plates more than 3/16 inch
thick, the weld thickness shall not be less than 1/3 the thickness of the thinner plate at the
joint and shall be atleast 3/16 inch.
(b) On plate 5/16 inch thick, the weld shall be a full-fillet weld, and on plates more than 5/16
inch thick, the weld thickness shall not be less than 1/3 the thickness of the thinner plate at
hte joint and shall be atleast 3/16 inch.
(c) On plate 3/16 inch thick, the weld shall be a full-fillet weld, and on plates more than 5/16 inch
thick, the weld thickness shall not be less than 1/3 the thickness of the thinner plate at the
joint and shall be atleast 5/16 inch.
(d) On plate 1/4 inch thick, the weld thickness shall not be less than 1/3 the thickness of the
thinner plate at the joint and shall be atleast 1/4 inch.
ANS : (a)
166) The minimum thickness of an annular plate ring is usually greater than :-
ANS : (a)
167) The permissible exposure limit (PEL) is the maximum ____ time-weighed average of any
airborne contaminant to which an employee may be exposed :-
ANS : (a)
168) The proper method for dismantling tank bottoms that are to be reused shall be cut by:-
ANS : (d)
169) The purchaser has not specified the use of 1-foot method for calculating thickness and L/H ≤
2, therefore, what is the shell plate thickness for the first course for the following tank
design?
ANS : (c)
(a) protect against lightening; (b) corrosion control for tank bottoms;
ANS : (c)
171) The root opening for square grooves for butt-welded bottom plate shall not be less than :-
(a) 1/2 inch; (b) 1/4 inch; (c) 3/16 inch; (d) 9/32 inch.
ANS : (b)
ANS : (d)
ANS : (c)
174) The tank shall be cleaned and ____ prior to commencement of dismantling :-
ANS : (a)
175) The thickness to be used for each shell course when checking the tank design after
reconstruction shall be based on measurements taken within ____ days prior to relocation :-
ANS : (c)
ANS : (d)
177) The upper flammable limit (UFL) is the concentration of a flammable vapour in air that will
ignite :-
ANS : (b)
178) The variable design point method shall be used for tanks greater than ____ in diameter :-
ANS : (a)
180) Thickness readings taken on a tank shell after 5 years of service show a minimum thickness
of 0.420 inches. The data sheet shows the original thickness as 0.5 inches. What is the
corrosion rate for the tank :-
ANS : (c)
ANS : (c)
ANS : (b)
(a) 12" or greater NPS nozzles; (b) greater than 12" NPS nozzles;
(c) greater than 2" NPS nozzles; (d) greater than 10" NPS nozzles.
ANS : (b)
184) To be certified under the program which of the following educational and experience
requirements must be met :-
ANS : (c)
185) To evaluate tank settlement, elevation measurements are performed and compared with
measurements marked just after construction. Where are these measurements made ?
(a) Tank circumference, tank height; (b) Tank diameter, tank height;
(c) Tank height, tank base; (d) Tank circumference, tank diameter.
ANS : (d)
ANS : (b)
187) Top decks of external floating roofs (double deck or pontoon type) which are designed with
are designed with a permanent slope for drainage shall have a minimum slope of ____ inch in
12 inches :-
ANS : (a)
188) Under-run on plate not more than inch from the computed design thickness or minimum
permitted thickness is acceptable :-
ANS : (a)
189) Unless otherwise agreed to by the purchaser, what is the minimum nominal width of a shell
plate ?
ANS : (c)
ANS : (a)
191) Vertical welds must be fully radiographed if the shell thickness exceeds inches :-
ANS : (b)
ANS : (b)
193) Welded joints that have experienced metal loss due to corrosion :-
ANS : (b)
ANS : (d)
195) Welder or welding operator's identification marks shall be located adjacent to completed
welds at intervals not exceeding :-
(a) 9 feet;
(b) 6 feet;
(c) 3 feet;
(d) As identified on the approved welding procedure specification.
ANS : (c)
ANS : (a)
197) Welding filler metals are grouped into groupings based on their AWS classification:-
ANS : (b)
198) Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS), and welders and welding operators must be
qualified in accordance with ____ :-
ANS : (d)
ANS : (c)
ANS : (a)
201) What are the two general approaches for determining minimum thicknesses of tank bottom
plate and briefly describe their differences :-
ANS : (a)
202) What are the two methods of guided-bend tests permitted by ASME Section IX ?
(a) Bottom ejection method and Wrap around method;
(b) Top ejection method and Bottom ejection method;
(c) Side ejection method and Wrap around method;
(d) All to the above.
ANS : (a)
203) What diameter bolt circle is required and how many bolts for a 24 inch roof manhole?
ANS : (d)
ANS : (d)
ANS : (c)
ANS : (a)
208) What is the 42 gallon barrel capacity of a tank 110 feet in diameter, 24 feet high, joint
efficiency is 0.85, specific gravity = 1.0, corrosion allowance = 0.
ANS : (d)
209) What is the allowable stress at root of anchor bolt threads for a tank with a design pressure up
to 2.5 psig ? Uplift is based on tank design pressure and wind.
ANS : (b)
210) What is the capacity of a tank 110 feet in diameter, 24 feet high, joint efficiency is 0.85,
specific gravity is 1.0, corrosion allowance = 0 ?
ANS : (d)
211) What is the distance from the centre pipe to shell for a 3 inch nominal pipe size, 36 diameter
drawoff sump, which is 18 inched deep ?
(a) 2.1875'; (b) 3.2343'; (c) 5.0000'; (d) 5.3780'
ANS : (c)
212) What is the distance in inches, that both a roof plate or a shell bottom must be cut from the
weld when dismantling a shell tank :-
ANS : (b)
213) What is the expected service life for a properly applied tank bottom lining ?
ANS : (c)
ANS : (d)
215) What is the maximum acceptable undercutting of new constructed base metal for vertical butt
joints?
(a) 1/4 inch; (b) 1/8 inch; (c) 9/32 inch; (d) 1/64 inch.
ANS : (d)
216) What is the maximum acceptable undercutting of new construction base metal for horizontal
joints ?
(a) 1/4 inch; (b) 1/8 inch; (c) 1/32 inch; (d) 1/64 inch.
ANS : (c)
217) What is the maximum depth of a depreciation, oval in shape, which measures 18 feet long by
11 feet wide?
ANS : (d)
218) What is the maximum depth of edge settlement if the distance from the inside of the shell to
the bend point of the depression is 7 feet ?
ANS : (a)
219) What is the maximum interval between external UT thickness measurements for a tank,
given the following information ? Remaining CA = 0.064", Corrosion rate is 0.008" per year.
ANS : (b)
220) What is the maximum out-of-plumbness of a new tank from the top of shell relative to the
bottom of the shell ?
(a) 1/100 of the total tank height; (b) 1/50 of the total tank height;
(c) 1/60 of the total tank height; (d) 1/200 of the total tank height.
ANS : (d)
221) What is the maximum reinforcement allowed on a 1/2" thick vertical butt weld made on a
reconstructed tank ?
ANS : (b)
ANS : (b)
223) What is the maximum thickness of weld reinforcement for a 0.5625 inch plate ?
ANS : (b)
224) What is the minimum acceptable shell plate thickness for a tank shell made of A 283 grade C
material, 70 feet in diameter and 50 feet high ? Specific gravity of contents is 0.8. Original
joint efficiency was 100 %.
ANS : (d)
225) What is the minimum allowable density through the image of the penetrameter for
radiographs made with a 2000 kv tube ?
(a) 1.8 – 4.0; (b) 1.3 – 2.8; (c) 2.0 – 4.0; (d) 1.3 – 1.8;
ANS : (d)
227) What is the minimum nominal shell thickness required when the normal tank diameter is less
than 50 feet?
ANS : (a)
228) What is the minimum nominal thickness for bottom plates, exclusive of any corrosion
allowance?
(a) 3/16 inch; (b) 1/4 inch; (c) 5/16 inch; (d) 7/16 inch.
ANS : (b)
ANS : (c)
230) What is the minimum permissible design metal temperature for a 280 foot diameter tank, 75
feet high, tank radius is 1,680 inches, plate material ordered is 1.125" (including corrosion
allowance) A 516 – 555 as rolled, killed fine-grain practice without impact testing :-
(a) + 8; (b) 0;
(c) – 4; (d) All Material must be impact tested.
ANS : (c)
231) What it the minimum permitted density of radiographic film using an Iridium source ?
ANS : (a)
232) What is the minimum required number of settlement measurement points for a 200' diameter
tank ?
ANS : (c)
233) What is the minimum thickness of bolting flange and cover plate for a 24 × 24 size flush-type
cleanout to be installed in a tank having maximum h eight of 53 feet :-
ANS : (d)
234) What is the calculated minimum thickness of shell plates from the stress on vertical joints for
a field-erected small capacity tank, which has a diameter of 30 feet, height of 36 feet, joint
efficiency is 0.85, specific gravity is 1.0, with a corrosion allowance of 0.125 ?
ANS : (c)
ANS : (b)
236) What is the most common protective cushion for aboveground storage tanks ?
ANS : (a)
237) What is the nominal shell thickness required when the nominal tank diameter is less than 50
feet ?
(a) 3/16 inch; (b) 1/4 inch; (c) 5/16 inch; (d) 3/8 inch.
ANS : (a)
238) What is the radii tolerance measured at 1 foot above the shell to bottom for a reconstructed
125 foot diameter tank ?
(a) +/- 1/2; (b) +/- 3/4; (c) +/- 1; (d) +/- 1 1/4.
ANS : (b)
(a) "Guide for Controlling the Lead Hazard Associated with Tank Entry and
Cleaning."
(b) "Cleaning Open-Top and Covered Floating-Roof Tanks"
(c) "Guidelines for Confined Space Work in the Petroleum Industry"
(d) "Welded Steel Tanks for Oil Storage"
ANS : (a)
240) What must be done to the tank prior to dismantling to insure proper alignment after the tank
is reconstructed ?
(a) Atleast four sets of matching centre punch marks should be placed at the top and
bottom edges of each shell plate.
(b) Atleast two sets of matching centre punch marks shall be placed at the top and
bottom edges of each shell plate.
(c) Atleast three alignment tabs shall be tack welded to the top and bottom edges of
the each shell plate.
(d) Atleast two sets of matching centre punch marks may be placed at the top and
side edges of each shell plate.
ANS : (b)
241) What are NDE methods and to what extent shall they be used for the examination of repairs
to butt welds ?
ANS : (d)
242) What of the following are not principal causes of shell distortion :-
ANS : (a)
243) What percentage of selected spot radiography shall be at junctions of vertical and horizontal
joints ?
ANS : (c)
244) What size diameter cover plate is required for a 20 inch roof manhole ?
ANS : (c)
245) What size penetrameter is required for RT of a tank 0.75 inches thick ?
ANS : (a)
246) What spacing must be used for a settlement survey of a 100’ diameter tank ?
ANS : (c)
(a) is removed;
(b) is covered by the new name plated;
(c) is located next to the new name plate;
(d) is left for the owner / user to keep on file
ANS : (c)
248) When alternative inspection intervals are selected, the owner / user :-
(a) shall document the procedure and make it part of the permanent record;
(b) alternatives are not allowed;
(c) alternative method shall include method for determining bottom plate thickness;
(d) both (a) and (c) above.
ANS : (d)
249) When calculating the maximum liquid level for reconstructed tanks, the required corrosion
allowance shall be :-
(a) deducted from the actual thickness before calculating maximum liquid level;
(b) added to actual thickness before calculating maximum liquid level;
(c) not be considered when calculating maximum liquid level;
(d) deducted from the original design thickness.
ANS : (a)
250) When changing a non-essential variable on a welding procedure, the procedure must be :-
ANS : (a)
251) When concrete ring walls are provided under the shell, the top of the ring wall shall be level
with ______ inch in the total circumference measured from the average elevation :-
ANS : (a)
252) When determining average thickness in a corroded area of a shell, a minimum of equally
paced measurements shall be taken over a length of L.
ANS : (b)
253) When evaluating roof support systems, special attention should be paid to:
ANS : (d)
ANS : (c)
255) When liquid penetrant is specified, the method of examination shall be in accordance with
one of the following :-
ANS : (a)
256) When preparing the surface for lining, the abrasive blasting should not be performed if the
temperature of the steel surface is less than ____ above the dew point or if the relative
humidity is greater than ____ %.
ANS : (b)
257) When replacing rim-mounted shoe seals on a floating roof, no more than ____ of the seal
should be out of service at any one time.
ANS : (a)
258) When required, a set of Charpay V-notch impact specimens shall be taken :-
ANS : (b)
ANS : (b)
260) When reusing the entire bottom in the intact condition, the shell cut shall be a minimum of
____ inch(es) above the top of the bottom plate :-
ANS : (c)
261) When reviewing a radiograph, a dark image of the letter B can be seen on the film
ANS : (b)
262) When the corrosion rate is not known or determinable from similar service experience, actual
bottom plate thickness shall be determined by inspection within the next ____ years of
operation :-
ANS : (a)
263) When the tank is out of service, additional bottom plate examination includes :-
ANS : (a)
264) When two (2) welders weld opposite sides of the same butt joint :-
ANS : (d)
265) When two or more tanks are installed concurrently in the same location for the same
purchase :-
(a) spot radiographs to be taken is based on each tanks footage of the welds;
(b) spot radiographs may be omitted in tank # 2 if no defects were found in tank # 1;
(c) spot radiographs may be taken based on the aggregate footage of the welds of the
same type and thickness;
(d) spot radiographs to be taken be based on the aggregate footage of the welds
regardless of weld type and thicknesss;
ANS : (c)
266) When ultrasonic thickness measurements are used to take in-service thickness measurements,
what is the maximum interval for reinspection on a tank corroding at a rate of 1.13 mils per
year and has a remaining corrosion allowance of 22 mils ?
(a) 5 years; (b) 9 years; (c) 15 years; (d) 20 years.
ANS : (b)
ANS : (c)
268) When vacuum testing is performed, a partial vacuum of at least psig should be used :-
ANS : (a)
269) Which below best describes how surfaces shall be prepared for Ultrasonic examination :-
(a) The finished contact surfaces shall be free from weld splatter and any roughness
that would interfere with free movement of the search unit or impair the
transmission of ultrasonic vibrations;
(b) The weld surfaces shall be finished so they cannot mask or be confused with
reflections from defects, and should merge smoothly into the surfaces of the
adjacent base materials;
(c) The volume of base material through which the sound will travel in angle beam
examination shall be completely scanned with a straight beam search unit to
detect reflectors which might affect interpretation of angle beam results;
(d) all of the above.
ANS : (d)
270) Which below option Thin-Film lining system shall be used for the following service
conditions; Temperature 200 degrees F, product contents are distillates,
ANS : (b)
271) Which is not a factor in determining intervals between internal inspections for storage tanks:-
ANS : (d)
ANS : (c)
ANS : (d)
ANS : (d)
ANS : (d)
(a) Attack by frost; (b) Rusting; (c) Wind load; (d) Floods.
ANS : (a)
ANS : (c)
(a) Stresses placed on the bottom plates by roof support loads and shell settlement;
(b) Inadequate drainage;
(c) Rock or gravel foundation pads with inadequately filled-in surface voids;
(d) Operating conditions.
ANS : (d)
279) Which of the following is not a factor in determining suitability for service of shell tanks :-
ANS : (b)
ANS : (a)
ANS : (d)
282) Which of the following is not true regarding dismantling of the shell :-
ANS : (d)
283) Which of the following is not true regarding small punctures in a floating roof plate :-
ANS : (a)
284) Which of the following types of welds do not need welder identification ?
ANS : (d)
285) Which thin-film lining system shall be used for the following service conditions :
Temperature 200 degrees F, product contents are distillates :-
ANS : (b)
ANS : (b)
ANS : (b)
288) Who is responsible for qualifying the welders used to repair an above ground storage tank ?
ANS : (b)
289) Who is responsible for stating the design metal temperature (based on ambient temperatures),
the design specific gravity, the corrosion allowance (if any), and the design wind velocity ?
ANS : (a)
290) Widely scattered pits may be ignored provided that the sum of their dimensions along any
vertical line does not exceed 2 inch in an 8 inch length and no pit depth results in a shell
thickness of less than of the minimum thickness exclusive of corrosion allowance :-
ANS : (c)
__________oooooOOooooo_____________
1. API 650 covers the design, materials, fabrication, erection, and testing of aboveground
steel storage tanks. What is the maximum internal pressure for tanks not covered by
appendix F of this standard?
a) Maximum pressure shall not exceed 15 psig
b) Maximum pressure shall not exceed 15 psia
c) Maximum pressure shall not exceed the weight of the roof plates
d) Maximum pressure shall not exceed the weight of the floor plates
2. API-650 applies only to tanks whose entire bottom is uniformly supported and tanks in
___ that have a maximum operating temperature of _____°F.
a) Any petrochemical service and temperature not exceeding 120°F
b) Non-refrigerated service and temperature not exceeding 200°F
c) Non-refrigerated service and temperature not exceeding 120°F
d) Any petrochemical service and temperature not exceeding 200°F
Section 2 – Materials
1. API-650 lists materials to be used in the construction of tanks covered by the standard. Is
it permissible to use materials other than those listed in the standard?
a) No only materials listed in API-650 may be used in tank fabrication
b) Yes as long as the manufacturer accepts full liability for tank failure
c) Yes providing it is certified as meeting all requirements of a material listed in
API-650 and is approved by the API-653 Inspector
d) Yes providing it is certified as meeting all the requirements of a material listed in
API-650 and is approved by the purchaser
2. If a new or unused plate cannot be completely identified, may it still be used in the
construction of tanks within the scope of API-650?
a) Yes only if the material passes the tests prescribed in Appendix S
b) Yes only if the material passes the tests prescribed in Appendix N
c) Yes only if the material passes the tests prescribed in ASME Section V
d) Yes only if the material passes the tests prescribed in ASME Section VIII, Div. 2
3. What is the maximum permitted underrun for shell, roof, and bottom plates?
a) 0.10 inch from the computed design thickness or minimum permitted thickness
b) 0.01 inch from the computed design thickness or minimum permitted thickness
c) 0.001 inch from the computed design thickness or minimum permitted thickness
d) 0.02 inch from the computed design thickness or minimum permitted thickness
5. Which of the following is not a requirement for shell plates that are thicker than 1.5
inches?
a) Plates thicker than 1.5 inches shall be free of mill scale and painted
b) Plates thicker than 1.5 inches shall be made to fine-grain practice
c) Plates thicker than 1.5 inches shall be impact tested
d) Plates thicker than 1.5 inches shall be normalized or quench tempered
6. What is the maximum shell plate thickness permitted for a tank fabricated of ASTM A 36
material?
a) This plate material is limited to 1.750 inches
b) This plate material is limited to 1.075 inches
c) This plate material is limited to 1.050 inches
d) This plate material is limited to 1.500 inches
7. What is the maximum shell plate thickness permitted for a tank fabricated of ASTM A
285, Grade C material?
a) This plate material is limited to 1.000 inches
b) This plate material is limited to 1.250 inches
c) This plate material is limited to 1.500 inches
d) This plate material is limited to 1.750 inches
9. When conducting impact tests, how many specimens are required from a single test
coupon?
a) Impact tests shall be performed on a single specimen taken from a single test
coupon
b) Impact tests shall be performed on two specimens taken from a single test coupon
c) Impact tests shall be performed on three specimens taken from a single test
coupon
d) Impact tests shall be performed on four specimens taken from a single test coupon
10. In situations where it is not possible to obtain full size specimens, what is the required
width along the notch for subsize specimens?
a) 60% of the material thickness
b) 80% of the material thickness
c) 90% of the material thickness
d) 75% of the material thickness
11. Unless data is available to justify a different temperature, what must the design metal
temperature be for an aboveground storage tank to be installed in Birmingham, Alabama?
a) The design temperature shall be assumed to be 25°F
b) The design temperature shall be assumed to be 15°F
c) The design temperature shall be assumed to be 20°F
d) The design temperature shall be assumed to be 10°F
12. Unless data is available to justify a different temperature, what must the design metal
temperature be for an aboveground storage tank to be installed in Indianapolis, Indiana?
a) The design temperature shall be assumed to be 5°F
b) The design temperature shall be assumed to be -5°F
c) The design temperature shall be assumed to be 0°F
d) The design temperature shall be assumed to be 10°F
13. What is the required average longitudinal impact value of three specimens taken from a
1.375 inch thick A 516M-60(415) normalized Group IIIA test coupon?
a) 30 foot-pounds
b) 20 foot-pounds
c) 15 foot-pounds
d) 13 foot-pounds
14. What is the required average longitudinal impact value of three specimens taken from a
1.5 inch thick A 516M-70(485) as rolled Group V test coupon?
a) 35 foot-pounds
b) 25 foot-pounds
c) 20 foot-pounds
d) 30 foot-pounds
15. Longitudinal impact tests are performed on three specimens, taken from a 1.5 inch thick
A 516M-70(485) as rolled test coupon with the following results: Specimen #1 – 42 foot-
pounds, Specimen #2 – 18 foot-pounds, Specimen # 3 – 31 foot-pounds. Is the impact test
acceptable?
a) Yes the average impact value exceeds 30 foot-pounds
b) Yes only one specimen is less than 2/3 the specified minimum value
c) No the average impact value of Specimen # 1 exceeds 2/3 the required average
impact value and one specimen is less than 2/3 the specified minimum value
d) No Specimen #2 is less than 2/3 the specified minimum
Section 3 – Design
1. According to API-650, tack welds _______
a) May be installed by welders who need practice
b) Can be considered as adding to the strength of a welded joint
c) Are not considered as having any strength value in the finished structure
d) Have strength value in the finished structure provided they are performed by a
qualified welder to a qualified welding procedure
2. What is the minimum size fillet weld permitted when joining a 1” thick plate to a ¾”
thick plate?
a) 3/16”
b) 1/4”
c) 3/8”
d) 1/2”
3. For lap-welded joints that are tack welded, what is the minimum amount of lap
permitted?
a) The lap need not exceed 2”
b) The lap need not exceed 1”
c) The joint shall be lapped at least 5 times the minimum required thickness of the
thinner plate
d) The joint shall be lapped at least 5 times the nominal thickness of the thinner plate
5. Vertical shell joints may be partial penetration groove welds welded from both sides.
a) True
b) False
6. API 650 requires the vertical joints in adjacent shell courses to be offset. What is the
minimum required offset between the first course of an AST, which is 1.25” thick and the
second course which is 1” thick?
a) The minimum offset shall be 5 times the second shell course height
b) The minimum offset shall be 5 times the thickness of the second course
c) The minimum offset shall be 5 times the first shell course height
d) The minimum offset shall be 5 times the thickness of the first shell course
7. Three-plate laps in tank bottoms shall be at least ____ from each other, from the tank
shell, from butt-welded annular-plate joints, and from joints between annular plates and
the bottom.
a) 1.2 inches
b) 12 inches
c) 1.2 feet
d) 12 feet
8. What is the maximum size of fillet weld permitted in the attachment between the lowest
course shell plate and the bottom plate?
a) 3/8 inch
b) 5/16 inch
c) 1/2 inch
d) 1/4 inch
9. What is the minimum size fillet weld required on each side of the shell plate attaching
shell plate to the annular plate? The shell plate is 1.25” thick.
a) 3/8 inch
b) 3/16 inch
c) 1/4 inch
d) 5/16 inch
10. A 110 ft diameter tank shall have a top angle not less than ____ inches.
a) 2 X 2 X 3/8
b) 2 X 3 X 3/8
c) 3 X 3 X 3/8
d) 3 X 2 X 3/8
11. The ______ shall state the design metal temperature, the design specific gravity, the
corrosion allowance, and the design wind velocity.
a) The purchaser
b) The fabricator
c) The Inspector
d) Erector
12. According to API-650, tanks meeting the minimum requirements of the standard may be
subjected to a partial vacuum of _____.
a) One inch of mercury
b) One inch of water pressure
c) One pound per square inch absolute
d) One centimeter of water pressure
14. The purchaser orders an aboveground storage tank and insists on a corrosion allowance in
the bottom plates of .125 inches. What is the minimum thickness permitted for bottom
plates in this tank?
a) Minimum thickness of bottom plate is 1/4 inch
b) Minimum thickness of bottom plate is 1/2 inch
c) Minimum thickness of bottom plate is 3/8 inch
d) Minimum thickness of bottom plate is 5/16 inch
15. What is the minimum projection, of trimmed bottom plates, beyond the outside edge of
the weld attaching bottom to the shell?
a) Minimum projection is 0.01 inch
b) Minimum projection is 0.10 inch
c) Minimum projection is 1.00 inch
d) Minimum projection is 10.0 inch
16. Annular bottom plates shall have a radial width that provides at least ____ between the
inside of the shell and any lap-welded joint in the remainder of the bottom.
a) 12 inches
b) 24 inches
c) 1.2 inches
d) 2.4 inches
17. How far must annular bottom plates project outside the shell?
a) Annular bottom plates shall project at least 1 inch when trimmed
b) Annular bottom plates shall project at least 1/2 inch beyond the edge of the weld
c) Annular bottom plates shall project at least 2 inches outside the shell
d) Annular bottom plates shall project at least 5t (t = thickness of the shell course)
outside the shell
18. The thickness of the first shell course of an aboveground storage tank is 1&5/8th inches.
The hydrostatic test stress in the first shell course is 33,000 psi. What is the minimum
permissible thickness of the annular bottom plates?
a) Minimum permitted thickness is 5/8th inch
b) Minimum permitted thickness is 9/16th inch
c) Minimum permitted thickness is 3/4 inch
d) Minimum permitted thickness is 11/16th inch
19. According to API-650, what is the minimum allowable nominal shell thickness of an
AST that is 86 feet in diameter?
a) Minimum nominal shell thickness is 3/16th inch
b) Minimum nominal shell thickness is 1/4 inch
c) Minimum nominal shell thickness is 9/32nd inch
d) Minimum nominal shell thickness is 5/16th inch
20. Unless otherwise agreed to by the purchaser, what is the minimum nominal width of shell
plates?
a) Minimum width of shell plates is 84 inches
b) Minimum width of shell plates is 96 inches
c) Minimum width of shell plates is 72 inches
d) Minimum width of shell plates is 120 inches
21. Aboveground storage tank manufacturers are required to furnish a drawing to the
purchaser listing all but which of the following for each course?
a) The material specification
b) The allowable stress
c) The nominal thickness used
d) The nominal thickness of coatings
22. In calculating the net plate thickness for an AST fabricated of A 516M Grade 450(60)
material, what would be the product design stress value used in the calculation?
a) 24,000
b) 21,300
c) 32,000
d) 23,300
23. The fabricator of an AST obtains the approval of the purchaser to use the alternative shell
design permitted in Appendix A in the design of a 60 foot diameter tank using 3/8th inch
A 516M Grade 450(60) plate. What allowable stress would be used in the design
calculations?
a) 21,300
b) 24,000
c) 21,000
d) 32,000
24. What is the maximum diameter of tank that permits the 1-foot method of calculation for
required thickness?
a) Tanks 50 feet in diameter and less
b) Tanks 120 feet in diameter and less
c) Tanks 180 feet in diameter and less
d) Tanks 200 feet in diameter and less
25. Openings in tank shells, larger than that required to accommodate a ____ flanged or
threaded nozzle shall be reinforced.
a) 2 inch
b) 2.5 inch
c) 3 inch
d) 3.5 inch
26. When installing openings in a shell plate, the edge of the fillet weld around the periphery
of the reinforcing pad shall be spaced at least the greater of _______ from the centerline
of any butt-welded shell joints.
a) Eight inches or ten times the weld size
b) Eight times the weld size or ten inches
c) Eight times the weld size or six inches
d) Eight inches or six times the weld size
27. When installing openings adjacent to each other, how much space must there be between
the welds around the periphery of the reinforcing plate?
a) Eight times the larger weld or ten inches from each other
b) Eight inches or six times the larger weld from each other
c) Eight times the larger weld or six inches from each other
d) Eight times the larger weld or eight inches from each other
28. A minimum distance of ____ shall be maintained between the toe of a weld around a
non-reinforced penetration and the toe of the shell-to-bottom weld.
29. Subject to the acceptance of the purchaser, the manufacture may locate a circular shell
opening in a horizontal butt-welded shell joint provided ______.
a) Minimum spacing dimensions are met and a liquid penetrant examination of the
welded joint is conducted
b) Minimum spacing dimensions are met and a radiographic examination of the
welded joint is conducted
c) Minimum spacing dimensions are met and an ultrasonic examination of the
welded joint is conducted
d) Minimum spacing dimensions are met and a magnetic particle examination of the
welded joint is conducted
30. All flush-type clean-out fittings and flush-type shell connections shall be thermally stress
relieved after assembly and prior to installation in the tank. What are the temperature
range and time requirements for this stress relief activity?
a) 1100°F to 1200°F for 1 hour per inch of reinforcing plate thickness
b) 1100°F to 1200°F for 1/2 hour per inch of shell thickness
c) 1100°F to 1200°F for 1 hour per inch of shell thickness
d) 1100°F to 1200°F for 1 & 1/2 hour per inch of shell thickness
31. Subject to the acceptance of the purchaser, the fabricator may stress relieve at a
temperature of 1000°F when it is impractical to stress relieve at a minimum temperature
of 1100°F providing _____.
a) The shell plate is first pre-heated to 300°F
b) The holding time is increased to 2 hours per inch of thickness
c) The holding time is increased to 4 hours per inch of thickness
d) The holding time is increased to 10 hours per inch of thickness
32. What is the minimum required thickness for a manhole cover plate to be used with a 24
inch manhole? The maximum design liquid level of the tank is 45 feet.
a) Minimum thickness of cover plate is 9/16th inch
b) Minimum thickness of cover plate is 5/8th inch
c) Minimum thickness of cover plate is 1/2 inch
d) Minimum thickness of cover plate is 11/16th inch
33. What is the bolt circle diameter for a cover plate used with a 30 inch diameter manhole?
a) 32 ¾ inch
b) 36 ¼ inch
c) 38 ¾ inch
d) 42 ¼ inch
34. The purchaser has ordered a 36 inch manhole to be installed in the first course of an AST.
The thickness of the shell plate and the reinforcing plate is 1.375 inches. What is the
required hole diameter that must be cut in the tank to accommodate this manhole?
a) 36 & 1/4 inch
b) 36 & 1/2 inch
c) 36 & 3/4 inch
d) 36 & 5/8 inch
35. API 650 requires telltale holes in reinforcing plates. What is the required dimension of
this hole and what should be done with it after the initial re-pad pressure test?
a) The hole shall be 3/8 inch diameter and shall be left open to the atmosphere
b) The hole shall be 1/4 inch diameter and shall be left open to the atmosphere
c) The hole shall be 3/8 inch diameter and shall be closed after testing
d) The hole shall be 1/4 inch diameter and shall be closed after testing
36. What is the maximum size un-reinforced opening permitted in flat cover plates without
increasing the thickness of the cover plate?
a) 4 inch pipe size providing the edge of the opening is not more than ¼ the height
or diameter of the opening closer to the center of the cover plate
b) 3 inch pipe size providing the edge of the opening is not more than ¼ the height
or diameter of the opening closer to the center of the cover plate
c) 2 inch pipe size providing the edge of the opening is not more than ¼ the height
or diameter of the opening closer to the center of the cover plate
d) 1 & ½ inch pipe size providing the edge of the opening is not more than ¼ the
height or diameter of the opening closer to the center of the cover plate
37. What is the maximum size opening that may be placed in a cover plate?
a) 12 inches pipe size
b) 8 inches pipe size
c) 6 inches pipe size
d) 3 inches pipe size
38. An aboveground storage tank has a design liquid height of 40 feet. The purchaser intends
to install product mixing equipment in the cover plate of a 30 inch manhole. What is the
required minimum thickness of the cover plate?
a) The minimum thickness shall be at least .625 inches
b) The minimum thickness shall be at least .75 inches
c) The minimum thickness shall be at least .9375 inches
d) The minimum thickness shall be at least .875 inches
39. A 24 inch manhole is to be installed in a roof plate and it is anticipated that work may be
carried on through the manhole while the tank is in use. What is the diameter of the
opening to be cut in the roof plate and what is the outside diameter of the reinforcing
plate?
a) The diameter of the opening is 24.625” and the OD of the reinforcing plate is 42”
b) The diameter of the opening is 24.625” and the OD of the reinforcing plate is 46”
c) The diameter of the opening is 24.750” and the OD of the reinforcing plate is 42”
d) The diameter of the opening is 24.750” and the OD of the reinforcing plate is 46”
40. What is the minimum thickness permitted for rectangular roof opening cover plates?
a) Minimum thickness shall not be less than .875 inches
b) Minimum thickness shall not be less than .750 inches
c) Minimum thickness shall not be less than .625 inches
d) Minimum thickness shall not be less than .500 inches
41. Stiffening ring splice welds shall be located at least _____ from any vertical shell weld.
a) 24 inches
b) 18 inches
c) 12 inches
d) 6 inches
42. When stiffening rings are to be used as walkways, what is the required width of the
stiffening ring?
a) The width shall be not less than 36 inches clear of the projecting curb angle on the
top of the tank shell
b) The width shall be not less than 3 feet 6 inches clear of the projecting curb angle
on the top of the tank shell
c) The width shall be not less than 24 inches clear of the projecting curb angle on the
top of the tank shell
d) The width shall be not less than 2 feet 4 inches clear of the projecting curb angle
on the top of the tank shell
43. How far below the top of the curb angle should a stiffening ring, that is to be used as a
walkway, be located?
a) 3 feet 6 inches
b) 36 inches
c) 6 feet 3 inches
d) 63 inches
44. All roofs and supporting structures shall be designed to support dead loads plus a uniform
live load of not less than _____ of projected area
a) 25 pounds per square inch
b) 25 pounds per square foot
c) 25 pounds per square yard
d) 25 pounds per square meter
45. What is the minimum nominal thickness permitted for roof plates?
a) 3/16 inch or 5.76 pounds per square foot
b) 3/16 inch or 6.75 pounds per square foot
c) 3/16 inch or 7.65 pounds per square foot
d) 3/16 inch or 12-gauge sheet
46. A roof where the continuous fillet weld between the roof plates and the top angle does
not exceed 3/16", the slope at the top angle attachment does not exceed 2" in 12", and the
shell-to-roof compression ring details are limited to Figure F-2 (a)-(d) may be considered
what type of roof?
a) A 1 in 6 roof
b) A dangerous roof design and should be avoided
c) A roof with inherent compensation
d) A frangible roof
47. Rafters shall be spaced so that in the outer ring, their centers are not more than _____
apart measured along the circumference of the tank.
a) 3π feet or 9.42 feet
b) 2π feet or 6.28 feet
c) 4π feet or 12.56 feet
d) 2.5π feet or 7.85 feet
Section 4 – Fabrication
1. What method(s) is/are permitted for straightening material?
a) Pressing or other non-injurious method prior to layout or shaping
b) Heating and hammering after layout or shaping
c) Jacking into shape after final assembly
d) Jacking into shape and holding with tack welds
3. When plates are to be used in lap-welded joints, shearing is limited to what maximum
thickness
a) 3/16th inch
b) 3/8th inch
c) 1/2 inch
d) 5/8th inch
4. What are the requirements regarding mill test reports according to API-650?
a) No material shall be used in the construction of an AST unless it is accompanied
by a mill test report
b) Mill test reports are required only on shell plate material
c) Mill test reports shall be furnished to the purchaser only when specified in the
original purchase order
d) Mill test reports shall be furnished to the purchaser prior to final acceptance of the
AST
5. Mill and shop inspection releases the manufacturer from responsibility for replacing
defective material.
a) True
b) False
Section 5 – Erection
1. What welding process is not permitted when impact testing of the material is required?
a) Shielded metal-arc
b) Gas metal-arc
c) Oxyfuel
d) Submerged arc
3. No welding of any kind shall be performed when the temperature of the base metal is less
than ____°F
a) Sixty
b) Thirty-two
c) Zero
d) Negative fifteen
4. When base metal thickness is greater than 1.25 inches or the base metal temperature is
0°F -32°F, what requirement must be met?
a) The base metal within 3 inches of the starting point of the welding shall be heated
to a temperature warm to the hand
b) The base metal within 3 inches of the starting point of the welding shall be heated
to a temperature of not less than 200°F
c) The base metal within 3 inches of the starting point of the welding shall be heated
to a temperature of not less than 60°F
d) The base metal within 3 inches of the starting point of the welding shall be heated
to a temperature of not less than 45°F
7. What is the maximum permissible weld reinforcement for a vertical joint in plate
thickness 1.25”?
a) 3/16th inch
b) 1/8th inch
c) 1/4th inch
d) 3/32nd inch
8. When tack welds are used during the assembly of vertical joints, what requirement is
stipulated by API-650?
a) Tack welds that are to be removed do not require a qualified procedure or welder
b) Tack welds that are to be left in place shall be made using a qualified procedure
only
c) Tack welds that are to be removed may be made using a welder in training
d) Tack welds that are to be left in place shall be made using a qualified procedure
and welder
9. What is the requirement when protective coatings are used on surfaces to be welded?
a) The coating must be removed prior to welding
b) The coating shall be included in the welder’s performance qualification tests
c) The coating shall be included in the welding procedure qualification
d) The coating shall be identified on the purchase order
10. The welding of the ____ shall be practically complete prior to welding-out the bottom
joints.
a) Nozzle reinforcement periphery welds
b) Shell-to-bottom weld
c) All vertical and horizontal shell welds
d) All external attachment welds
11. In a vertical joint of an AST, what is the maximum misalignment of 1.5” thick plate?
a) Maximum misalignment is .150 inch
b) Maximum misalignment is .145 inch
c) Maximum misalignment is .135 inch
d) Maximum misalignment is .125 inch
12. In a horizontal joint of an AST, what is the maximum projection of an upper plate beyond
the face of the plate below it? The plate thickness is .25 inch.
a) Maximum projection is .0625 inch
b) Maximum projection is .0500 inch
c) Maximum projection is .1250 inch
d) Maximum projection is .09375 inch
13. Multi-pass weld procedures are required for circumferential and vertical joints in tank
shell courses constructed of material that is more than 1.5 inches thick. What is the
maximum weld pass size permitted and what is the minimum pre-heat temperature?
a) No weld pass over ¾ inch with a minimum pre-heat of 300°F
b) No weld pass over ½ inch with a minimum pre-heat of 200°F
c) No weld pass over ¾ inch with a minimum pre-heat of 200°F
d) No weld pass over ½ inch with a minimum pre-heat of 300°F
14. The initial weld pass inside the shell of the shell-to-bottom weld shall be cleaned and
examined for its entire circumference. This examination shall be visually and by which of
the following?
a) Magnetic particle or ultrasonic or suitable liquid penetrant process
b) Magnetic particle or suitable liquid penetrant process or a vacuum box and bubble
method
c) Magnetic particle or radiography or vacuum box and bubble method
d) Magnetic particle or acoustic emission or eddy current
15. The required examination of the initial weld pass as described in API-650 may be waived
subject to agreement between the purchaser and the AST manufacturer provided all but
which of the following examinations are performed on the entire circumference of the
weld(s)
a) Examine either side of the finished weld by MT, PT, or right angle vacuum box
b) Visually examine the initial weld (inside and outside)
c) Visually examine the finished joint welded surfaces (inside and outside the shell)
d) Examine either side of the finished weld by MT, PT, UT, or RT
17. In an examination of a tank’s bottom weld seams by vacuum box testing, what is the
required partial vacuum pressure?
a) At least 1 lbf/in2 gauge (psig)
b) At least 2 lbf/in2 gauge (psig)
c) At least 3 lbf/in2 gauge (psig)
d) At least 4 lbf/in2 gauge (psig)
19. After fabrication is completed but prior to filling an aboveground storage tank with test
water, reinforcing plates shall be tested. What method of test and pressure shall be used?
a) A hydrostatic pressure test at up to 15 lbf/in2 (psig)
b) A pneumatic pressure test at up to 15 lbf/in2 (psig)
c) A vacuum test at a partial pressure of 2 lbf/in2 (psig)
d) A pneumatic pressure test at up to 25 lbf/in2 (psig)
20. A new aboveground storage tank must be tested. If water is available for testing the shell,
the tank shall be filled to any of the following levels except?
a) To the maximum design liquid level
b) Tanks with tight roofs, to 2 inches above the weld connecting the roof plate of
compression bar to the top angle of the shell
c) To overflowing to ensure all air is vented from the tank
d) To a level lower than specified in a) or b) when restricted by overflows or
freeboard agreement between the manufacturer and the purchaser
21. The purchaser of an AST that is designed to be gas tight required the roof to be tested
pneumatically. What maximum pressure would be applied to a tank with ¼” thick roof
plates?
a) The maximum pneumatic pressure permitted is .053 psi
b) The maximum pneumatic pressure permitted is .071 psi
c) The maximum pneumatic pressure permitted is .083 psi
d) The maximum pneumatic pressure permitted is .091 psi
22. During the filling of an aboveground storage tank for testing, leakage was observed in a
horizontal seam. Repairs are to be completed with the test water in the tank. The tank is
61 feet high and the leak is discovered 29 feet below the top of the tank. Where must the
water level be during the repair?
a) The water level shall be not less than 30 feet from the top of the tank
b) The water level shall be not more than 32 feet from the bottom of the tank
c) The water level shall be at the maximum design liquid level
d) The water shall be removed from the tank
23. A 60 foot high aboveground storage tank is designed with an internal floating roof. What
is the maximum out-of-plumbness permitted on the 54.5 foot fixed roof columns?
a) 2.94 inches
b) 3.27 inches
c) 1.31 inches
d) 1.18 inches
24. What is the maximum roundness tolerance (radius tolerance) permitted on an AST that is
110 feet in diameter and where is this tolerance applied?
a) ¾” measured 10 feet above the bottom corner weld
b) ¾” measured 1 foot below the top shell angle joint
c) ¾” measured 1 foot above the bottom corner weld
d) ¾” measured 10 feet below the top shell angle joint
25. Peaking at vertical welds and banding at horizontal welds shall not exceed ____.
a) 1 inch
b) ¾ inch
c) ½ inch
d) ¼ inch
26. Peaking and banding are determined using a horizontal sweep board for peaking and a
straight edge vertical sweep board for banding. What is the required length of these
sweep boards?
a) 48 inches
b) 24 inches
c) 42 inches
d) 36 inches
27. The top of the concrete ringwall (where installed) of an AST must be level within ± 1/8”
in any 30 feet of circumference. What is the total circumferential tolerance measured
from the average elevation?
a) ±1/8”
b) ±3/16”
c) ±1/2”
d) 1/4”
28. Where a concrete ringwall is not provided, the foundation under the shell shall be level to
within what tolerances?
a) ±1/8” in any 30’ of the circumference and ±1/2” in the total circumference
measured from the average elevation
b) ±1/8” in any 10’ of the circumference and ±1/2” in the total circumference
measured from the average elevation
c) ±1/8” in any 10’ of the circumference and ±1/4” in the total circumference
measured from the average elevation
d) ±1/8” in any 30’ of the circumference and ±1/4” in the total circumference
measured from the average elevation
29. For foundations specified to be sloped from a horizontal plane, the actual elevation shall
not deviate from the calculated differences by more than which of the following where
concrete ringwalls are provided?
a) ±1/8” in any 30’ of the circumference and ±1/4” in the total circumference
measured from the average elevation
b) ±1/8” in any 10’ of the circumference and ±1/2” in the total circumference
c) ±1/8” in any 10’ of the circumference and ±1/2” in the total circumference
measured from the average elevation
d) ±1/8” in any 30’ of the circumference and ±1/4” in the total circumference
30. For foundations specified to be sloped from a horizontal plane, the actual elevation shall
not deviate from the calculated differences by more than which of the following where
concrete ringwalls are not provided?
a) ±1/8” in any 30’ of the circumference and ±1/2” in the total circumference
measured from the average elevation
b) ±1/8” in any 10’ of the circumference and ±1/2” in the total circumference
c) ±1/8” in any 10’ of the circumference and ±1/4” in the total circumference
measured from the average elevation
d) ±1/8” in any 30’ of the circumference and ±1/4” in the total circumference
3. Vertical butt welds in plates not greater than 3/8th inch thick, require one spot radiograph
to be taken in the first _____ of completed vertical joint of each type and thickness by
each welder or welding operator.
a) 100 feet
b) 50 feet
c) 25 feet
d) 10 feet
4. One additional spot radiograph shall be taken in each additional ____ of vertical joint of
the same type and thickness.
a) 10 feet
b) 200 feet
c) 100 feet
d) 25 feet
5. What percentage of the selected spot radiographs must be at junctions of vertical and
horizontal welded joints?
a) 25 percent
b) 50 percent
c) 75 percent
d) 15 percent
6. For butt welded joints in plates over 3/8” to not over 1” in thickness are required to be
radiographically examined to the same extent as plates 3/8” and less. What additional
spot examination does API-650 require for these welded joints?
a) 50 percent of all vertical and horizontal junctions
b) 75 percent of all vertical and horizontal junctions
c) 100 percent of all vertical and horizontal junctions
d) 25 percent of all horizontal joints between the first and second course
7. The radiographic film for all junctions of vertical and horizontal joints shall show at least
____ of weld length on each side of the vertical intersection.
a) 3 inches
b) 2 inches
c) 1 inch
d) 4 inches
8. The butt weld around the periphery of an insert manhole or nozzle shall be ____.
a) Completely examined by liquid penetrant methods
b) Completely examined by ultrasonic methods
c) Completely examined by magnetic particle methods
d) Completely examined by radiographic methods
9. After the initial spot radiograph in the first 10 feet of horizontal butt joint, additional spot
radiographs shall be taken at what increment?
a) One radiograph shall be taken in each additional 200 feet
b) One radiograph shall be taken in each additional 100 feet
c) One radiograph shall be taken in each additional 300 feet
d) One radiograph shall be taken in each additional 150 feet
10. What is the minimum weld length that must be clearly shown on each radiograph?
a) 2 inches
b) 3 inches
c) 6 inches
d) 8 inches
11. Personnel who perform and evaluate radiographic examinations according to API-650
shall be qualified and certified by the manufacturer as meeting the requirements as
generally outlined in _____.
a) Level II or Level III of ASNT SNAT-TC-1B
b) Level II or Level III of ASNT SNT-TC-1B
c) Level II or Level III of ASNT SNAT-TC-1A
d) Level II or Level III of ASNT SNT-TC-1A
12. The acceptance standards for radiographic examinations shall be in accordance with
which of the following?
a) Paragraph UW-51(b) in Section VIII of the ASME Code
b) Paragraph PW-51(b) in Section I of the ASME Code
c) Paragraph 341.3.2 in B31.3 Process Piping of the ASME Code
d) Paragraph RB-3233 in the National Board Inspection Code (NBIC)
14. After an aboveground storage tank is completed, what shall be done with the
radiographs?
a) They shall become the property of the insurance company
b) They shall become the property of the manufacturer
c) They shall become the property of the purchaser
d) They shall become the property of the API
17. Liquid penetrant examination shall be performed in accordance with a written procedure.
The examiner shall have his/her vision checked and be able to read which of the
following?
a) The liquid penetrant written procedure at a distance not less than 12 inches
b) A Jaeger Type 2 standard chart at a distance not less than 12 inches
c) A Jaeger Type 1 standard chart at a distance not less than 12 inches
d) A Jaeger Type 3 standard chart at a distance not less than 12 inches
18. Undercutting of welds attaching nozzles, manholes, cleanout openings, and permanent
attachments shall not exceed which of the following?
a) Undercutting shall not exceed 1/64th inch
b) Undercutting shall not exceed 3/32nd inch
c) Undercutting shall not exceed 1/32nd inch
d) Undercutting shall not exceed 3/64th inch
2. The manufacturer has the approval of the purchaser to use a material listed in API-650
but not included in the applicable table of ASME Section IX. What Group number would
this material be included in if the minimum tensile strength is specified at 73,000 psi?
a) This material would be included in Group number 2
b) This material would be included in Group number 1
c) This material would be included in Group number 3
d) This material can not be used in AST construction
3. When impact tests of the heat-affected zone are required, how shall this requirement be
treated?
a) Heat treated condition of the base metal shall be a non-essential variable
b) Heat treated condition of the base metal shall be an essential variable
c) Heat treated condition of the base metal shall be a supplementary essential
variable
d) Heat treated condition of the base metal does not need to be addressed on the
welding procedure specification
4. If a protective coating has been applied to weld edge preparations, how is this condition
treated on the welding procedure specification?
a) The coating shall be removed and does not affect the weld and therefore does not
need to be addressed
b) The coating shall be included as an essential variable
c) The coating shall be included as a non-essential variable
d) The coating shall be included as a supplementary essential variable
5. Materials to be used at a design metal temperature below ____, the qualification of the
welding procedure for vertical joints shall include impact tests of the weld metal.
a) 50°F
b) 32°F
c) 60°F
d) 0°F
6. Welder qualification tests conducted by one manufacturer shall not qualify a welder or
welding operator to do work for another manufacturer.
a) True
b) False
Section 8 - Marking
1. A nameplate shall identify aboveground storage tanks made in accordance with API-650.
Where must this nameplate be located on the completed tank?
a) This nameplate shall be attached to the tank shell adjacent to a manhole or to a
manhole reinforcing plate immediately to the right of the manhole
b) This nameplate shall be attached to the tank shell adjacent to a vertical weld joint
at least 48” above the shell-to-bottom weld joint
c) This nameplate shall be attached to the tank shell adjacent to a manhole or to a
manhole reinforcing plate immediately above the manhole
d) This nameplate shall be attached to the tank shell adjacent to a manhole or to a
manhole reinforcing plate immediately below the manhole
2. The manufacturer of an AST is required to certify to the purchaser that the tank has been
constructed in accordance with API-650. How is this certification accomplished?
a) The manufacturer shall provide the purchaser with a U-1 Data Report form
b) The manufacturer shall provide the purchaser with letter
c) The manufacturer shall provide the purchaser with an ASME acceptable
“Certificate of Compliance”
d) The manufacturer shall provide the purchaser with a notarized certificate of
compliance
2. What is the maximum tensile strength, before the joint efficiency is applied, permitted in
the design of small tanks in accordance with Appendix A of API-650?
a) 21000 psi
b) 21500 psi
c) 21000 ksi
d) 21500 ksi
3. When computing the tension in each ring (course) of a small tank designed in accordance
with Appendix A of API-650, where is this tension computed?
a) The tension shall be computed 12 inches above the centerline of the course in
question
b) The tension shall be computed 12 inches above the centerline of the lower
horizontal joint of the course in question
c) The tension shall be computed 12 inches above the centerline of the tank in
question
d) The tension shall be computed 12 inches below the centerline of the upper
horizontal joint of the course in question
4. What joint efficiency factor shall be used in the design of small tanks designed in
accordance with Appendix A of API-650 when spot radiographic examination is applied?
a) 1.00 b) 0.90 c) 0.85 d) 0.70
5. What joint efficiency factor shall be used in the design of small tanks designed in
accordance with Appendix A of API-650 when spot radiographic examination is omitted?
a) 1.00
b) 0.90
c) 0.85
d) 0.70
2. The base metal goes into solution (corrodes) by releasing electrons and forming positive
metal ions. This statement describes what takes place at what component of a corrosion
cell?
a) The cathode
b) The electrolyte
c) The metallic connection between the cathode and the anode
d) The anode
3. Which of the following is the most correct statement regarding the cathode?
a) Moderate corrosion takes place at the cathode
b) No corrosion takes place at the cathode
c) All corrosion takes place at the cathode
d) A chemical reaction takes place using electrons released at the electrolyte
4. The electrolyte contains ions and conducts positive current from the anode to the cathode.
The most common electrolyte for external tank bottom surfaces is _______, while the
most common for internal surfaces is _________.
a) Water, sludge and moist soil
b) Moist soil, water and sludge
c) Acidic soil, water and sludge
d) Moist soil, product and sludge
5. The two most common types of corrosion to tank bottoms are ______ and ______.
a) Stress corrosion and galvanic
b) Erosion and erosion/corrosion
c) General and pitting
d) Stray current and bimetallic
Reference: API-651 Paragraph 4.1.2
© Asian Training Academy. Pune, India 102
API 653 Preparatory Question Bank
7. Which type of corrosion may only affect relatively small areas, while substantial areas of
the surface are unaffected by corrosion?
a) Galvanic
b) General
c) Brittle
d) Pitting
8. Composition of the metal is a factor in determining which areas become anodes and
which become cathodes. What else can cause corrosion?
a) Differences between weld metal, heat affected zone, and parent metal
b) Differences in thickness between adjacent plates
c) Improper fit-up of the welded joint
d) Slag inclusion in the weld metal
12. The most common and potentially the most damaging stray currents are:
a) Direct currents
b) Alternating currents
c) Intermittent currents
d) Close proximity alternating currents
15. All but one of the following is listed as major factors which influence the severity of
internal corrosion. Which is not a factor?
a) The pH level of the fluid in contact with the steel bottom
b) The amount of nitrogen in the fluid in contact with the steel bottom
c) Suspended solids in the fluid in contact with the steel bottom
d) Conductivity of the fluid in contact with the steel bottom
16. Three major types of internal corrosion to be considered are general corrosion, pitting
corrosion, and to a lesser extent in tanks, environmental cracking.
a) True
b) False
2. When should corrosion control by cathodic protection for new ASTs be provided?
a) After final welding and before hydrostatic testing
b) After all stress relief has been carried out
c) In the initial design
d) After the tank is in service for 6 months
3. Generally tanks in petroleum service use ______ on the internal surfaces to control
internal corrosion.
a) AC Current instead of DC current cathodic protection systems
b) Coatings
c) Cathodic protection in conjunction with coatings
d) Since pure hydrocarbon fluids are usually not corrosive experience shows that
internal corrosion will never occur therefore, corrosion control is not necessary
6. Such items as site plan, soil properties, previous repairs, existing cathodic protection of
nearby structures, maintenance history, and expected life should be investigated and
determined when conducting the ____________.
a) Evaluation of the location of a refinery
b) Probability study of tank settlement
c) Evaluation of tank design/construction history
d) Evaluation of tank repairs and alterations
7. Of the following items which is not an item that should be investigated and determined in
the evaluation of types of service?
a) Type of product stored
b) Product temperature
c) Ambient temperature
d) Presence and depth f water bottoms
8. Such items as tank inspections per API Standard 653, corrosion rate records, stray current
problems, design and performance of previous protection systems, and structure-to-soil
potential surveys should be investigated and determined when conducting the ______.
a) Evaluation of tank repair/alteration/construction history
b) Evaluation of tank design/construction history
c) Evaluation of types of service
d) Evaluation of inspection/corrosion history
9. The cushion material under the tank has a significant effect on external corrosion of the
tank bottom. The material can also influence:
a) The effectiveness and applicability of external cathodic protection
b) The effectiveness and applicability of internal cathodic protection
c) The decision to use or not use a rectifier or DC generator set to supply current
d) The type of product that may be stored in the tank
10. What is an advantage of using fine particles for the cushion material?
a) The fine particles should be uniform which makes it easier to transport
b) Fine particles provide a more dense cushion to help reduce the influx and outflow
of oxygen
c) Fine particles will not permit the passage of product should a leak occur in the
tank bottom
d) Fine particles will hold moisture longer permitting it to stabilize and prevent acid
from forming in the electrolyte
11. What is the main disadvantage in using large size particles in the soil cushion material?
a) The large particles may puncture the tank bottom
b) The large particles may trap moisture and allow general corrosion to form
c) If large particles are used, differential aeration corrosion may result where the
particles contact the tank bottom
d) The large particles are more difficult to transport
12. A soil resistivity of about 1250 OHM-CM would indicate the soil is probably ____.
a) Mildly corrosive
b) Very corrosive
c) Corrosive
d) Moderately corrosive
13. The results of soil resistivity surveys can be used to determine ________.
a) When it is time to replace the cushion material under the tank bottom
b) The need for cathodic protection
c) The amount of compression of the cushion material under the tank
d) The best place to install a corrosion test bed
14. A properly designed concrete tank cushion constructed on stable, properly prepared
subsoil may be effective in all but which of the following?
a) Cracks in the tank bottom weld seams
b) Intrusion of groundwater
c) Soil-side corrosion
d) The need for cathodic protection
15. Cracks through the concrete cushion may permit water and contaminants to permeate to
the steel tank bottom and provide a path for proper electrical current flow.
a) True
b) False
16. Corrosion of the steel tank bottom installed on a concrete cushion may result from
moisture accumulation caused by all but which of the following?
a) Condensation
b) Blowing snow or rain
c) Humidity in the air surrounding the tank
d) Flooding
17. Why would it be more important to provide proper support under cushions of new asphalt
than for concrete?
a) Asphalt is inherently alkaline and therefore does not have the potential of
preventing corrosion
b) Asphalt is not inherently alkaline and therefore does not have the potential of
preventing corrosion
c) Asphalt may degrade and become a corrosive substance
d) Asphalt may crack allowing moisture to reach the tank bottom where it will react
violently with the asphalt and the steel tank bottom
18. How can the condition of the external surface of tank bottom and the asphalt cushion be
determined?
a) Raise the entire tank and inspect the tank bottom and the asphalt
b) Take a core sample from the asphalt for testing. This test will reveal the amount
of steel that has gone into solution and been trapped in the asphalt
c) Conduct a soil resistivity survey around the periphery of the tank containment
d) By cutting coupons from the tank bottom
19. A soil analysis reveals the pH of a native soil cushion to be 6.25. This soil is considered
to be:
a) Moderately corrosive
b) Mildly corrosive
c) Corrosive
d) Very corrosive
20. A soil analysis reveals the sulfates level of a native soil cushion to be 5525ppm. This soil
is considered to be
a) Moderately corrosive
b) Mildly corrosive
c) Corrosive
d) Very corrosive
21. What is the most common material used as a cushion beneath storage tank bottoms?
a) Clean concrete
b) Clean sand
c) Clean Asphalt
d) Clean modified aggregate
22. The use of oiled sand beneath tank bottoms does not eliminate the need for cathodic
protection and in fact may cause cathodic protection to be less effective because:
a) The oiled sand has higher resistivity
b) The sand is unable to conduct electrical current
c) The oil acts as an insulator and blocks all current flow
d) The oil creates a vapor bearer entrapping water and contaminants next to the tank
bottom
23. There are several ways the tank cushion can become contaminated. Three of the
following are methods of cushion contamination, which one is not?
a) In coastal areas salt spay may be washed down the side of the tank
b) Fertilizer from spraying operations in rural areas
c) Airborne chemicals from industrial operations
d) Residual build-up of electrons in the sand cushion
24. Leakage of product from the tank bottom can cause accelerated corrosion by creating
____.
a) Stray current corrosion
b) Corrosion cells where none existed before
c) More positively charged electrons
d) A film that would block electrical current flow
25. When a layer of crushed-limestone or clam-shell is used for the tank cushion, why is it
important to ensure the particles are fine and uniform?
a) Large particles could puncture the tank bottom
b) Differential aeration corrosion cells will cause pitting at contact areas between the
large particles and the metal
c) Large particles may allow the formation of dissolved gas pockets which could
become a hazard if hot tap work is performed on the tank bottom
d) Large particle will eventually fracture and create voids in the tank cushion
28. There are a variety of methods for secondary containment, which of the following is not
an accepted method of secondary containment.
a) Dual bottom tank design
b) Sand bags
c) Use of impervious clay pad in tank dike
d) Impervious nonmetallic membrane
29. During the installation of a new steel bottom over an existing steel bottom, which has
been repaired, if water or other electrolyte intrudes into the annulus, what can happen?
a) A galvanic cell may form which will cause the new steel tank bottom to corrode
at an accelerated rate
b) An electrochemical reaction may take place creating hazardous gasses
c) A galvanic cell may form which will cause the old tank bottom to corrode at an
accelerated rate
d) A galvanic cell may form which will turn the old tank bottom into an anode
30. With the installation of _____ in a diked area prior to new tank construction, most
cathodic protection systems are rendered ineffective.
a) A secondary containment system utilizing a perforated impervious membrane
b) A secondary containment system utilizing an impervious membrane
c) A secondary containment system utilizing a metallic impregnated screen
membrane
d) A secondary containment system utilizing a non-impervious membrane
3. Galvanic cathodic protection systems use a metal, that is more active than the structure to
be protected, to supply the current required to stop corrosion. What is another term(s)
used to describe this material?
a) Anode, commonly referred to as a galvanic or sacrificial anode
b) Cathode, commonly referred to as a galvanic or sacrificial cathode
c) Ribbon cathode, commonly referred to as a sacrificial ribbon cathode
d) Impressed current anode, commonly referred to as the impressed anode
9. A cathodic protection rectifier has two major components; what are they?
a) A step-down transformer to reduce the AC supply voltage and rectifying elements
to convert DC to AC output
b) A step-down transformer to reduce the AC supply voltage and rectifying elements
to convert AC to DC output
c) A step-down transformer to reduce the DC supply voltage and rectifying elements
to convert DC to AC output
d) A step-down transformer to reduce the AC supply voltage and rectifying elements
to regulate the AC output
10. Impressed current anodes used in soil are not made of:
a) Graphite
b) High silicon cast iron
c) Zinc
d) Mixed metal oxides on titanium
9. Tank-to-soil potential measurements are typically taken with current applied; however,
corrections for ______ in the soil must be made.
a) IW drop(s)
b) IR drop(s)
c) ER drop(s)
d) IE drop(s)
10. Correction for IR drop in the soil is often necessary for measurements made at the tank
perimeter even if the reference electrode is placed immediately adjacent to the tank. This
is especially true if ______ is/are close to the tank.
a) Distributed anodes
b) The cathodic protection power supply rectifier
c) The sacrificial anode
d) The DC power supply (battery)
11. Monitoring the actual structure-to-soil potential under the tank should be considered.
How can this be accomplished?
a) Permanently installed reference electrode or by burying reference electrode every
20 feet around the perimeter of the tank
b) Inserting a reference electrode under the tank through a perforated tube or
attaching a reference electrode to the tank shell
c) Permanently installed reference electrode or by inserting a reference electrode
under the tank through a perforated tube
d) Permanently installed bare copper wire connected to the tank bottom or by
inserting a reference electrode under the tank through a perforated tube
12. Other standard reference electrodes may be substituted for the saturated copper/copper
sulfate reference electrode. Which of the following is not a common substitute?
a) Reference electrode ➪ Zinc, Voltage ➪ +0.25
b) Reference electrode ➪ Saturated KCI calomel Voltage ➪ -0.78
c) Reference electrode ➪ Silver/silver chloride Voltage ➪ -0.80
d) Reference electrode ➪ Aluminum alloy (5% zinc) Voltage ➪ +0.08
Section 11 –
Operation and Maintenance of Cathodic Protection Systems
1. Why is it important to conduct potential surveys when there is an adequate liquid level in
a tank?
a) Bottom-to-electrolyte potential readings may indicate adequate protection for the
portion of the tank in contact with the soil but when the tank is full and all of the
bottom is in contact, protection may not be sufficient
b) Bottom-to-anode potential readings may indicate adequate protection for the
portion of the tank in contact with the soil but when the tank is full and all of the
bottom is in contact, protection may not be sufficient
c) Bottom-to-cathode potential readings may indicate adequate protection for the
portion of the tank in contact with the soil but when the tank is full and all of the
bottom is in contact, protection may not be sufficient
d) Bottom-to-electrolyte potential readings may indicate adequate protection for the
portion of the tank in contact with the soil but when the tank is full and all of the
bottom is in contact, protection may be far more than necessary
3. After a system has been energized, it may take _____ for polarization to a steady state to
take place.
a) Two and a half years
b) One year
c) Several months
d) Fifteen minutes
4. To ensure the effectiveness of cathodic protection, how often should cathodic protection
surveys be taken?
a) Every two years
b) Annually
c) Bi-annually
d) Quarterly
6. Tank bottoms shall be examined for evidence of corrosion at least once each year by
conducting an internal inspection and taking coupon cutouts.
a) True
b) False
7. Records to demonstrate the need for corrosion control measures should be retained for
a) 5 years
b) 10 years
c) 15 years
d) As long as the facility remains in service