API 653 Integrated Training

Professional Training and Consultation
API 653 Preparatory

GUIDELINES FOR API 653 CERTIFICATION EXAMINATION
Contents
1. Examination Scheme
2. Distribution of Marks
3. Salient Features of the Examination
4. How to Prepare for the Examination
5. Tips for Maximizing the Score
6. Time Management During the Examination
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1. EXAMINATION SCHEME
As per the present scheme, API 653 examination is one-

day, 8-hour, 2 session examination, comprising of pre-
lunch session (4 hours) for “open-book” examination and
post-lunch session (4 hours) for “closed-book”
examination.
There are a total of 150 questions carrying 1 mark each

(total of 150 marks), split into open-book (approximately
50 questions) and closed-book (approximately 100
questions). The distribution of 50 and 100 questions
respectively for open-book and closed-book
examinations is approximate; however the total is always
150 questions.
Each question is multiple choice questions with given 4

possible choices. Only one is the correct choice. The
candidate has to pick-up the correct choice and indicate
the same on separate answer sheet. The answer sheet
along with the question paper should be returned back to
the Supervisor. The correct answer is to be indicated by
blackening (filling) the relevant circle by a pencil. There is
no set passing percentage. However a score of about 95
to 105 out of 150 is a good estimate of passing score.
Please note the following:
 Fill only one circle out of four given

 Fill the circle fully and completely. Half or less than
half blackened circle area is not reckoned for
answer.
 Never indicate the answers by ticking (√) the circles.
 There is no negative marking.
During the “open-book” session, you are permitted to

refer to the codes and other documents as per “Effectivity
Sheets”. Code pages may be tabbed, highlightened,
underlined or notes in margin of the pages are accepted.
Additional new pages to codes are not accepted. Always
carry the following to the exam hall.
 2 Nos. B or 2B pencils and eraser

 Non-programmable calculator
 Photo identity (passport, driving license, etc.)
 Exam confirmation letter
Be present in the exam hall at least 15 minutes prior to

scheduled start of exam. The supervisor announces
important instructions during this period. Do not miss them.
Now relax and attempt the exam calmly. Time is always
more than enough.
Good luck, friends!
2. DISTRIBUTION OF MARKS
As per the Effectivity Sheet, there are total 7 codes prescribed

for examination. However, all of them are not equally important
and do not therefore require equal emphasis. About 50
percent questions are asked from one code API 653 which is
hardly 40 pages, while all other 8 codes contribute 50% marks
which are more than 1,000 pages. Following distribution
scheme will help the participant to decide how much time he
should spend for each document during preparation.
Questions
Approx. Weightage
S.N. Code Asked Out of
(in %)
Total 150
1 API 653 45 – 50 68 – 75
2 API 650 15 – 18 22 - 27
3 ASME Sec. IX 10 -12 15 - 18
4 ASME Sec. V 10 – 12 15 - 18
5 API RP 575 5 7
6 API RP 651 3 4
7 API RP 652 3 5
8 General Knowledge 2 3
3. SALIENT FEATURES OF THE EXAMINATION
As stated earlier, the examination comprises of open book and

closed book parts. The closed-book examination includes such
questions which the inspector is normally expected to know
without referring the Codes, i.e., the questions are “awareness
level” questions.
Whenever you find a very definitive or quantitative statement in

body of the Code, a closed book question may be expected
on it. Thus, the basic requirements of a code, specific “DO” and
“DON’T” statements, important quantified statements,
important definitions and well-known inspection principles will
constitute such questions.
Where the student is required to refer to the diagrams or

formulas or tables or graphs and curves from the Codes, it will
always be an “open-book” question. All calculation oriented
questions will normally be “open-book” type. The Code
information which is not short and crisp, (i.e., large paragraphs,
several descriptive statements clubbed together) will normally
be asked in “open-book” part. Here the participant is expected
not to remember the information but should know where to find
it in the body of the Code.
The questions asked in closed book part are straight forward

statements directly taken form Code without much of the
modifications and therefore are easy to answer. To answer
open-book questions, one only needs to know where to find
the answer in the code and therefore tabbing of Code pages,
highlighting the paragraphs or additional explanatory notes in
page margins is useful for saving time. Closed-book part of the
exam (100 marks) can be finished in hardly 2 to 2 ½ hour
though 4 hours are allotted. While “open-book” part (50 marks)
takes a little longer and may require all the 4 hours that are
allotted.
4. HOW TO PREPARE FOR EXAM:
If your aim is only to get “certified”, i.e., to obtain just around

100-110 marks, detailed study of documents nos. 1 to 4 above
(Chapter 2) may be adequate. Additionally, one should try to
remember all the “Points to Recall” and review the mock
examinations attempted during the Preparatory Course. If two
or more participants from same organization are appearing for
exam, then joint discussions and one putting question to
another and vice versa has been found very effective during
preparation. Other 5 codes (i.e., Serial No. 5 to 9) may be
studied in detail if there is additional preparation time
available. An overall “awareness” level knowledge of these 5
Codes may be okay.
If your objective is to get certified and also to obtain a good

score, (say 125+) then it is worthwhile to study the 5 Codes
(Serial No. 5 to 9). However, please remember that study of API
653 has to be “thorough” and total, while study of API 650,
ASME Sec. IX and ASME Sec. V should be such that it can cover
the topics mentioned in the “Body of Knowledge”. The last 5
Codes (Serial No. 5 to 9) should be read at least once and note
the important points. A very “thorough” study of these
documents however will not result in “gains” commensurate
with the efforts put in.
If you are about a month away from examination, read all the
Codes at least once and concentrate on highlighted text in the
Codes and also try to solve the question bank.
If you are about two weeks away from the exam, concentrate
on highlighted text as well as the mock examinations
conducted during the course. In the last week of preparation,
focus on Points to Recall and mock exams.
5. TIPS FOR MAXIMIZING THE SCORE
Remember the “10 Tips” covered during the preparatory

course. Following additional tips will be useful.
a. There are only 5 or 6 important definitions from

Chapter 3 of API 653. Normally 3 to 4 definitions
are asked in closed-book exam.
b. From Chapter 4 of API 653, nearly 15 questions

are asked (7 to 8 closed book and 7 to 8 open
book). Concentrate more on clauses 4.2.1.2,
4.2.3.1, 4.2.4.3 to 4.3.7.
c. Chapter 5, knowing figure 5-2 and only 3

clauses 5.3.5 to 5.3.7 is enough.
d. From Chapter 6, about 10 questions are asked.

It is only 3 page chapter. Particularly pay
attention to Inspection intervals.
e. From Chapter 7 and Chapter 8, generally 2 or 3

questions are asked.
f. Chapter 9, about 7 to 8 questions are asked.

Concentrate more on Figure 9-1 and hot tap
(Clause 9.14).
g. Chapter 10, about 3 or 4 questions are asked

and those generally “open book” type. So you
can refer to the code and get answers.
h. Chapter 11, it is hardly 8 to 10 lines chapter but

1 or 2 questions are asked.
i. Chapter 12, about 7 to 8 questions are asked.

Normally the questions are on NDT. The
participant is expected to know that NDT
procedures shall be as per relevant article of
ASME Sec. V, the NDT extent shall be as per API
650 or 653 while acceptance criteria is as per
API 650 or ASME Sec. VIII, Div. 1. he should also
know that qualification standard of NDT
personnel is ASNT SNT-TC 1A (or API 650). This
chapter is better explained in Appendix F (API
653) as NDE Summary or in Appt. (API 650)
j. Chapter 13, generally 1 question covering

name plate stamping is asked.
k. Appendices: App. A. Here note that API 650

was introduced in 1961 (prior to this was API
12C) and seventh edition (1980) onwards the
joint efficiency (E) is taken as 1.
App. B: The important topics are number of

settlement monitoring points (Figure B-1, B-2)
and formula B = 0.37 R (R in feet while B is in
inches)
App. C: This being item wise inspection

checklist concerning what to check where.
Normally, 1 or 2 open book questions are set.
No need to remember this table.
App. D: Note certification requirement (Clauses

D.2 and D.5)
l. From API 650. Normally, two questions are

asked on materials. (Fig. 2-1, Table 2-3, Table 2-
4 and Clause 2.8). Usually 5 to 6 questions are
asked on Chapter 3 concerning shell, bottom

and roof thickness, attachment welds. From
Chapter 5, normally 2 or 3 questions will be
asked. Focus on weld reinforcement,
undercuts, use of low-H electrodes and
inspection pressure for pad-test and vacuum
box test. From Chapter 6, generally 3 questions
covering number of radiographs (Fig. 6-1) and
acceptance standards and personnel
qualifications are asked.
m. Since there is no negative marking, there is no

harm in making guess. Generally, do not go
against your first impulse, unless you are sure
you were wrong in the first place. If some
questions are still remaining unanswered mark
the answers you “feel” may be right. Do not
leave any question unanswered.
6. TIME MANAGEMENT DURING EXAM:
Both “open” and “closed” book sessions are 4 hours each.

This means about 25 to 28 questions per hour for closed book
and 12 to 15 questions per hour for open book. For proper
time management following are useful suggestions.
a) You may start from Question No. 1 and proceed. If after

1 hour you feel that you are maintaining the required
progress as mentioned above proceed serially.
b) If, however, you are behind the required rate, start

jumping the questions, i.e., start attempting those
questions you can answer, deleting whose answer you
do not know. Proceed like this till the end. Do not leave
any question unanswered whose answer you know.
c) Then come back to “deleted” questions and attempt

them using your “feel” factor. Go on like this till say last
10-15 minutes are remaining.
d) If there are still some questions where you have no clue

at all just mark the answer at random in last 10-15
minutes. This may give you few chance marks. Do not
leave any question unattempted.
e) After completion of writing exam, if you have still time

(which you normally have) you may go through your
answers just to check quickly if you have filled a wrong
circle.
7. TEST TAKING TIPS
● Don’t read too much into a question. Do not get too

elaborate and ruin your answer.
● If two choices are very similar, the answer is probably not

either of them.
● If two choices are opposite, one of then is probably

correct.
● Don’t go against your first impulse unless you are very

sure you were wrong.
● Check for negatives and other words that can throw you
off.
● The answer is usually wrong if it contains “all,” “always,”

“never,” or “none.”
● The answer has a great chance of being right if it has

“sometimes,” “probably,” or “some.”
● When you don’t know the answer, look for the wrong ones.
● If you are supposed to read a long passage and then answer

questions about it, read the question first. That will tell you
what you are looking for and affect the way you read the
passage.
● Be suspicious of choices that seem obvious.
● Don’t give up on a question that, after one reading,

seems complicated. Looking at it from a different angle,
restating it in your own words, drawing a picture, or
breaking it down, etc., may help you realize that it’s not as
hard as you thought.
API 653 Preparatory

26 Feb – 3 Mar 2005, Dammam
Page 1 of 4
BENCH MARK QUIZ
1. Open-top type tanks (with floating roof) are typically

adopted for storing petroleum products that are :
a. Non-volatile
b. Heavy distillates (e.g. Bitumen, asphalt etc)
c. Volatile
d. All of above
2. The term “Critical Zone” in storage tanks refers to:
a. Lower part of shell interior, which is welded to

bottom
b. Upper part of shell interior, which is welded to roof
c. Lower part of roof exterior, which is welded to shell
d. Annular part of bottom interior, which is welded to
shell
3. API 650 code is tank construction code for:
a. Atmospheric Storage tanks

b. Tanks with pressure up to 15 psig
c. Aboveground tanks including Refrigerated tanks
d. All of above
4. The terms “Sketch plates” and “annular plates” refer to

Plates in:
a. Tank roof
b. Tank bottom
c. Tank shell
d. None of above
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API 653 Preparatory

Page 2 of 4
BENCH MARK QUIZ
5. Hydrostatic testing of tank shells is:
a. Basically water fill test

b. Conducted at 1.1 times the static column pressure of
product
c. Conducted at 1.0 times the static column pressure of
product
d. Highest Pressure value of a, b, c above
6. Internal inspection of tanks during shut-down is essentially

for inspection of:
a. Tank roof
b. Tank bottom
c. Tank shell
d. Tank Nozzles
7. During tank inspection, the inspector should be more strict

while inspecting:
a. The shell Horizontal welds

b. The shell vertical welds
c. Both a and b. are equally critical
d. The roof welds
8. Cathodic protection is provided to tanks normally for guarding

the:
a. The tank shell against product corrosion

b. The tank bottom against product corrosion
c. The tank bottom against soil corrosion
d. Both b and c
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API 653 Preparatory

Page 3 of 4
BENCH MARK QUIZ
9. For the new tanks to be constructed to the API 650-Basic

Standard, radiography for shell butt-welds is:
a. Optional and its extent depends on the Joint efficiency

used for design
b. Optional and its extent depends on the Plate thickness
used for shell
c. Mandatory and its extent depends on Joint efficiency
used for design
d. Mandatory and its extent depends on the plate thickness
used for shell
10. “Vacuum box testing” is Typical testing, normally applied for:
a. Bottom welds
b. Mandatory for shell welds, optional for bottom welds
c. Mandatory for shell welds, optional for roof welds
d. Pad testing
11. When the tank is empty, the floating roof of open-top tank is
a. At its top-most position

b. Resting on the bottom
c. Resting on the legs
d. May be at any location
12. Since the tank is neither a pressure vessel, nor the piping,
the welding procedures and welders for API 650 tanks are
qualified as per:
a. AWS D 1.1
b. API 1104
c. Still use ASME IX
d. Any of above is OK
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API 653 Preparatory

Page 4 of 4
BENCH MARK QUIZ
13. Which of the following is/are mandatory appurtenances for

Storage tanks?
a. Tank level gauge

b. Tank vents
c. Pressure guage
d. Temperature gauge / thermometer
14. Hot tapping for the tanks are provided in:
a. Vapour space only

b. Liquid space only
c. Any of a or b
d. Hot taps are not permitted for storage tanks.
15. API 650 covers:
a. Cylindrical, welded, above ground tanks only

b. Cylindrical welded and riveted tanks
c. Cylindrical & rectangular, welded & riveted tanks
d. Cylindrical & rectangular, aboveground and underground
tanks
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API 653 Preparatory

Page 1 of 1
BENCH MARK QUIZ
Answer Key
Q. No. Answer
1 C
2 D
3 A
4 B
5 A
6 B
7 B
8 C
9 D
10 A
11 C
12 C
13 B
14 B
15 A
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API 653
Preparatory
26 Feb – 3 Mar 2005
Page 1 of 3
DAILY POINTS TO RECALL

(DAY 1)
1. API 653 is code used for inspection, repair, and alteration for the
aboveground storage tanks which are placed in Service. API
650 is the basic construction code for making New Tanks.
2. API 650 and API 653 are used for aboveground storage tanks at
atmospheric pressure (maximum 2.5 psi above atmospheric)
and temperatures not exceeding 90ºC.
3. Design metal temperature of tank is assumed to be 8ºC (15º F)

above the lowest one day mean temperature of tank site.
4. Where necessary, as per Fig. 2-1 (API 650), the tank materials
shall be checked against brittle failure by conducting impact
testing. Acceptance criteria shall be as per Table 2-4.
5. If average value of 3 specimen is < specified average value

(SAV) — reject. But if average value of 3 specimen ≥ SAV and,
a. Value of one specimen is < SAV but ≥ 2/3 SAV — accept

b. Value of one specimen is < SAV and also < 2/3 SAV — retest
c. Value of two specimen is < SAV — retest
On retest for b and c all three specimen ≥ SAV — accept
6. The required thickness of shell plates for tanks up to 60 m (200

feet) diameter shall be greater of td or tt:
(metric)
(US units)
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API 653
Preparatory
26 Feb – 3 Mar 2005
Page 2 of 3

(DAY 1)
Where:
D = Tank Diameter m (ft)

H = Height shell course from top liquid level in m (ft)
G = Specific Gravity of liquid to be stored
Sd and St = Allowable stress for design and
hydrostatic conditions in Mpa (psi)
C.A. = Corrosion allowance in mm (in)
7. Shell thickness calculated above (point no. 6) shall not be less

than that required by Diameter – Thickness table in API 650.
(3.6.1.1)
8. Values of Sd and St are taken from Table 3-2 of API 650. For
unlisted material:
Sd = Lower of 2/3 (Y.S) or 2/5 (T.S.) and
St = Lower of ¾ (Y.S) or 3/7 (T.S.)
9. Minimum nominal thickness excluding corrosion allowance for

roof plate shall be 5 mm (3/16”) and for bottom plate shall be 6
mm (1/4”).
10. All nozzles, manholes and other openings shall have dimensions
thickness, reinforcement plates and weld sizes as per tables 3-6
and 3-7 of API 650.
11. Radiography inspection is required for all shell butt welds and
annular plate butt welds and insert plates for manhole and
nozzles.
12. For shell plates the number of radiographs required depend on

whether the plate thickness is up to 10 mm (3/8), or above 10
mm to 25 mm (3/8” – 1”) or above 25 mm (1”). (Fig. 6-1 of API
650).
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API 653
Preparatory
26 Feb – 3 Mar 2005
Page 3 of 3

(DAY 1)
13. Radiography is also required on:

(i) 100% length of butt welds joining insert
plate to shell, and
(ii) Annular bottom plate radial joints (1 spot on
10% of radial welds if double butt welded
and 1 spot on 50% of radial welds if single
welded with backing strip.)
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API 653 Preparatory
Page 1 of 5
DAILY EXAM 1 (OPEN)
Note: Encircle the letter of only one answer which you think is most appropriate.
1. AST fabricated to API 650 (Basic Standard) is normally designed

not to exceed an operating temperature of:
a. 260 deg C
b. 100 deg C
c. 90 deg C
d. 21 deg C
2. Minimum size of fillet welds in the construction or repairs of an

AST built to API Standard 650 is:
a. Higher of 6 mm (0.25”) or half of the thickness of thinner

plate joined.
b. Higher of 9 mm (0.25”) or one third of the thickness of
thicker plate joined.
c. Higher of 5 mm (0.1875”) or one third of the thickness of
thinner plate joined.
d. Lower of 6 mm (0.25”) or half of the thickness of thinner
plate joined.
3. As per API Standard 650, the overlap at lap-welded joints shall

be at least five times the nominal thickness of the thinner plate,
but need not exceed,
a. 2” for single-welded lap joints and 4” for double welded

lap joints
b. 1” for single-welded lap joints and 2” for double welded
lap joints
c. 1.5” for single-welded lap joints and 2” for double welded
lap joints
d. 1.5” for single-welded lap joints and 1” for double welded
lap joints
4. Calculate by the 1-Foot method the design shell thickness Td in

inches, of the following description of tank built to API Standard
650:
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API 653 Preparatory
Page 2 of 5
DAILY EXAM 1 (OPEN)

H = Design liquid level = 50 feet
D = Nominal Tank Diameter = 180 feet
G = Design Specific Gravity = 0.86
CA = Corrosion Allowance = 0. 0625”
Sd= Allowable stress in design condition, in psi
Shell Material = ASTM A36M
Td = design shell thickness, inch(es)
St= Allowable stress for hydrostatic test condition, in psi
Tt = hydrostatic test shell thickness, inch(es).
Where, Td = 2.6 D (H –1) G + CA

Sd
a.0.912”
b.0.850”
c.1”
d.0.922”
5. Calculate by the 1-Foot method the hydrostatic test shell

thickness Tt in inches, of the above referred tank, when water
is used for the test :
Where, Tt = 2.6 D (H –1)

St
a. 0.935”
b. 0.985”
c. 1”
d. 0.922”
6. Maximum Reinforcement thickness of vertical butt joints of a

tank shell plate of 28mm, of an AST built to API Standard 650
shall be:
a. 5mm
b. 2.4mm
c. 1.6mm
d. 3mm
7. Vertical joints of a 28 mm thick shell of an AST built to API Std.

650 shall be radiographed to the extent as given below :
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API 653 Preparatory
Page 3 of 5
DAILY EXAM 1 (OPEN)

a.Full
b.Partial
c.Spot
d. Nil
8. In an AST built to API Standard 650, the bottom annular plates

have radial weld joints, and are single butt welded with
permanent back-up bar, in which case, the extent of
radiographing radial joints shall be,
a. One spot on 50% of radial joint

b. One spot on 10% of radial joints
c. Full radiography of all radial joints
d. RT – Nil; only MT of 100% joints is adequate.
9. As per API Std. 650, personnel who perform and evaluate

radiographic examinations (RT) shall have a minimum
qualification as follows :
a. Shall have a vision of Jaeger No.2

b. Shall be qualified as Level II of ASNT SNT-TC-1A
c. Shall not be color blind
d. Shall have an experience of at least ten years in RT.
10. The minimum required shell thickness of a Tank of 60 Meter

diameter (200 ft. diameter), built to API Standard 650, shall be:
a. Design shell thickness plus corrosion allowance

b. Hydrostatic Test shell thickness
c. 8 mm (5/16”)
d. Greater of a, b, c
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API 653 Preparatory
Page 1 of 5
DAILY EXAM 1 (OPEN)
11. Determine whether impact testing is required for A516 gr 70

normalised plates 1 inch thick, Design temp = 0 degree F (-18
degree C):
a. Not required
b. Required
c. Depends on opinion of design engineer
d. Depends on opinion of tank inspector
12. Which of the following sets of the Transverse Charpy V-notch

Impact Test Values of a fully killed 0.75 “ thick plate of ASTM A
516 gr 60 for a design metal temperature of -34 degree C, is
acceptable as per API 650? Plates are not normalized.
a.20, 11, 12 Joules

b.18, 24, 12 Joules
c.24, 22, 10 Joules
d.20, 10, 27 Joules
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API 653 Preparatory
Page 1 of 1
DAILY EXAM 1 (OPEN)

Answer Key
1 C Ref.: API 650, 1.1.1

2 C Ref.: API 650, 3.1.3.3
3 B Ref.: API 650, 3.1.3.5
4 A Ref.: API 650, 3.6.3.2 (td)
5 D Ref.: API 650, 3.6.3.2 (tt)
6 A Ref.: API 650, 5.2.1.5
7 A Ref.: API 650, Fig. 6-1, Note 6
8 A Ref.: API 650, 6.1.2.9
9 B Ref.: API 650, 6.1.3.2
10 D Ref.: API 650, 3.6.1.1
11 B Ref.: API 650, Table 2-3B & Fig. 2-1
12 B Ref.: API 650, Table 2-4
13 -----------------------------------------------
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
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API 653 Preparatory
26 Feb – 3 Mar 2005,
Dammam
Page 1 of 5
DAILY POINTS TO RECALL (DAY 2)
1. According to API 653, “Repairs” means any work necessary

to maintain or restore the safe operating conditions (as per
original design). “Alteration” means any work that changes
the dimensions and/or configuration of tank (changing
original safe operating conditions).
2. “Authorized inspection agency” is any one of the

following (who employ API tank inspector):
a. An owner operator
b. Subcontractor to owner operator
c. Inspection organization of jurisdiction
d. Inspection organization of insurance company
3. “Break-over point” means area of tank bottom where

settlement begins.
4. “Change of service” means change in fluid stored and

having different specific gravity or corrosivity or different
temperature or pressure.
5. “Critical zone” means portion of tank bottom within 3

inches of shell inside and measured radically inwards.
6. “Repair organization” means any of the following who

carries out repairs / alterations according to API 653.
a. Owner-user
b. Subcontractor to owner-user
c. Subcontractor authorized or approved by jurisdiction
7. Tank roof plates which are so corroded that there are

through holes or the average thickness is less than 0.09
inch in any 100 sq. inch area, then plates must be repaired
or replaced, i.e., tank cannot be permitted to continue
operation.
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API 653 Preparatory
26 Feb – 3 Mar 2005,
Dammam
Page 2 of 5
8. If tank service is to be changed resulting in increase of

internal pressure or operation above 90º C (200º F), then
requirements of API Appendix F and M must be fulfilled
respectively. If service changes lower temperature then
material must be suitable as per impact test requirements
of API 650.
9. Tank shell evaluation: 5 step method.
a. Determine the minimum thickness (t2) at corroded

area.
b. Calculate vertical critical length L for tank diameter D

(in ft.)
L=3.7 or 40” whichever is less
c. Determine t1 which is minimum of tav (tav is average

thickness of at least 5 readings over weakest L)
d. Determine t min by formula, tmin = 2.6 for
local area.
Or tmin = 2.6 for full shell course.
Take ‘S’ from Table 4-1 of API 653 code.
e. (i) Then t1 tmin + (CR x interval), and
(ii) t2 0.6 x tmin + (CR x interval) if conditions (i)

and (ii) are okay — accept. If no repair, or
replace or reduce the liquid height till repair/
replacement can be done.
10. Widely scattered pits can be ignored if:
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a. No pit depth results in shell thickness being less than
half the required thk – excluding C. A.
b. Sum of pit dimensions along any vertical line does
not exceed 2 inches in a total length of 8”.
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11. Minimum thickness for bottom plates is given by:
a. Anular plates (product sp. gr. < 1.0): Table 4-3 (API
653)
b. (Product sp. gr. ≥ 1.0): Table 3-1 (API 650)
c. Other bottom plates: Table 6-1 (API 653)
12. Min. thickness in “critical zone” is smaller of:(but not less

than 0.1”)
a. Half of original bottom thickness in critical zone, and
b. Half of tmin for first shell course.
13. Tanks designed prior to API 650 (7th edition, 1980) may be
assessed for brittle failure as per Fig. 5.2.
14. Tanks are not likely to fail in brittle failure if thickness is

not more than ½” or shell temperature is not less than 60º
F or stress level is less than 7,000 psi.
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DAILY EXAM 2 (CLOSED)

Note: Encircle the letter of only one answer which you think is most appropriate.
1. Maximum design internal pressure in an AST referred to by API

650 and API 653 is:
a. Not exceeding 2.5 psig

b. 15 psig approximately
c. Not exceeding 5.00 psig
d. None of the above
2. As per API 650, the design metal temperature of an AST is based

on the lowest one-day mean temperature in the locality where
the tank is installed, it is:
a. 15°C above the lowest one day mean temperature of the

locality
b. 8°C above the lowest one day mean temperature of the
locality
c. Same as the lowest one day mean temperature of the locality
d. 5°C below the lowest one day mean temperature of the
locality
3. In an AST built to API Standard 650, the minimum nominal

thickness of bottom plates, exclusive of specified corrosion
allowance shall be:
a. 12.7 mm (1/2”)
b. 8 mm (5/16”)
c. 6.0 mm (1/4”)
d. 5 mm (3/16”)
4. The full course width for shell plate as per API 650 shall be
minimum:
a.72”
b.96”
c.60”
d.90”
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5. In accordance with API Standard 653, Repairs and Alteration
have been defined as distinct activities. State which of the
following activities does not constitute an Alteration?
a. The addition of man-ways and nozzles greater than NPS 12

b. Increase and decrease in tank shell height
c. Replacement of damaged flange on nozzle by flange of
same size and material
d. All of the above
6. In accordance with API Standard 653, Repairs and Alteration

have been defined as distinct activities. Activity which entails any
work necessary to maintain or restore a tank to a condition
suitable for safe operation. State which of the following activities
does not constitute repair?
a. Re-leveling and/or jacking of a tank shell, bottom or roof

b. Addition of reinforcing plate/s to existing shell
penetration/s
c. Changing the content with higher specific gravity
d. Repair of flaws, such as tears or gouges, by grinding
followed by welding
7. In accordance with API Standard 653, Critical Zone for repairs to

a tank bottom is that portion which is:
a.Measured vertically upwards along shell, within 6” of tank

bottom
b.Measured radially inward, within 3” of the inside edge of shell
c.Measured radially outward within 1 ½” of outside edge of shell
d.A circular area measurable radially within 12” from center of
tank bottom
8. Normally the corrosion rates of the tank bottom control the

inspection interval, which are based on the actual or anticipated
rates of corrosion. In the case of a tank, where corrosion rates
are not known, and where similar service experience is not
available, the actual thickness of the bottom is to be determined
by due inspections within:
a. 20 years
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b. 5 years
c. 10 years
d. 2 years
9. In case of the following conditions, the risk of failure by brittle

fracture in an AST built to API Standards is minimal:
a. Tank shell thickness 5/8” and shell metal temperatures at

20°F and above
b. Tank shell thickness ½” and shell metal temperatures at
60°F and above
c. Tank shell thickness ¾” and shell metal temperatures at
32°F and above
d. Tank shell thickness 1” and shell metal temperatures at
0°F and above
10. As per API Standard 653, a routine, in service, close visual

external inspection of an aboveground storage tank (AST) shall
be done, at an interval not exceeding:
a. One year
b. Five years
c. One month
d. Ten years
11. As AST has a measured shell thickness of 0.75”; and its

minimum required thickness is 0.5”. The known rate of corrosion
of shell is 5 mils per year. As per API Standard 653, when should
the external visual inspection by an Authorized Inspector be
carried out at an interval not exceeding?
a. One year
b. Five years
c. Twelve and half years
d. Ten years
12. An AST has a measured shell thickness of 0.75; and its minimum
required thickness is 0.5”. The rate of corrosion of shell is not
known. As per API Standard 653, the external ultrasonic
thickness measurement shall be carried out an interval not
exceeding:
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a.One year
b.Five years
c.Six & half years
d.Ten years
13. An AST has a measured shell thickness of 0.75”; and its

minimum required thickness is 0.5”. The known rate of corrosion
of shell is 5 mils per year. As per API Standard 653, the external
ultrasonic thickness measurement shall be carried out at an
interval not exceeding:
a. One year
b. Twenty-five years
c. Fifteen years
d. Ten years
14. Corrosion on the bottom side of floor plates in aboveground

storage tanks is affected most by:
a. Composition of the contents stored in the tank

b. Welding procedures used during construction of the tank
c. The metal used for construction of the tank floor
d. Soil characteristics directly underneath the tank
15. If arc strikes, gouges, or tears from temporary attachments are

identified, they:
a. Must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis

b. Must be repaired by welding with an appropriate repair
procedure
c. Must be repaired by removing the plate area containing the
scars and welding in a butt-welded patch
d. Are acceptable, provided they are more than 2 feet from
any weld seam
16. 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?
a. 15 psig hydrostatic pressure
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b. 5 psig pneumatic pressure
c. 5 psig hydrostatic pressure
d. 15 psig pneumatic pressure
17. According to API 653, authorized inspection agency is:
a. Inspection organization of jurisdiction

b. Inspection organization of insurance company which
underwrites insurance of storage tanks
c. Inspection organization of owner-operator
d. Any of the above
18. For all repairs and alterations under API 653, the ultimate
responsibility rests with:
a. Owner-operator
b. API Committee
c. API 653 Inspector
d. Jurisdiction Authority
19. In API 653, the term “RBI” means:
a. Repairing Before Inspection

b. Report Based Inspection
c. Repair Based Inspection
d. Risk Based Inspection
20. Partial or complete jacking of a tank shell is considered:
a. Routine maintenance
b. An alteration
c. A repair
21. A corroded area of a tank bottom plate is filled-up by welding

overlay. There is no change in the rating and no change is made
on the nameplate. Which of the following is the correct term to
describe this process?
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a. Repair
b. Alteration
c. Can be repair or alteration
d. Neither repair or alteration
22. Under which of the conditions listed below is external inspection

of tank bottom plate permitted to be done in lieu of internal
inspection?
a. In cases where constructions size or other aspects allow

external access to the tank bottom to determine plate
thickness.
b. External inspection to determine bottom plate thickness is
never permitted in lieu of internal inspection
c. For tanks made of materials which have excellent chemical
resistance
d. All of the above
------------------------------ End -------------------------------------
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Answer Key
Q. No. Answer Reference

1 A API 653, 3.3
2 B API 650, 2.2.9.3
3 C API 650, 3.4.1
4 A API 650, 3.4.1
5 C API 653, 3.1
6 C API 653, 3.15
7 B API 653, 3.9
8 C API 653, 6.4.2.2
9 B API 653, Fig. 5-2 & 5.3.4 & 5.3.5
10 C API 653, 6.3.1.2
11 B API 653, 6.3.2.1
12 B API 653, 6.3.3.2 (a)
13 C API 653, 6.3.3.2 (b)
14 D API 653, 4.4.7.1
15 A API 653, 4.3.6
16 D API 650, 5.3.4
17 D API 653, 3.4
18 A API 653, 1.2
19 D API 653, 3.4.3
20 C API 653, 3.15
21 A API 653, 3.15
22 A API 653, 6.5
23 ---------- ----------------------------------------------------------
24
25
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1. Inspection Frequency (External) shall not exceed following
a. Routine-in Service inspection every one month.

b. External inspection (visual by authorized inspector): Lower of
one-fourth remaining life (RCA/4N) or 5 years.
c. Ultrasonic thickness inspection (external) of shell.
(i) when corrosion rate is not known — maximum 5
years
(ii) when corrosion rate is known — lower of :
— half remaining life (RCA/2N) or
— 15 years
2. Inspection Frequency (Internal) shall not exceed:
a. Based on MRT calculations, as per “Or” calculated but not

exceeding 20 years
b. If corrosion rates are not known: Actual bottom thickness

shall be determined not later than 10 years.
3. Alternative to point no. 2 above for internal inspection interval may

be altered based on RBI. The RBI basis shall be reviewed at
intervals not exceeding 10 years by authorized inspector and tank
engineer.
4. If there is access to tank bottom to determine bottom thickness,

externally, such inspection may be used in lieu of internal
inspection. (Point No. 2)
5. Inspection records include:
a. Permanent Records (Tank construction data)

b. Inspection history (Progressive Records)
c. Repair/alteration history (Repair/alteration records)
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6. New materials for repair/alteration/ reconstruction: All plate
material used for shell and the bottom plates welded to shell shall
be identified.
7. Thickness of shell plates to be used for checking the tank design

shall be within 180 days before relocation.
8. The strength values Sd and St for reconstructed tank shall be on the

basis of allowable stress as per table 3-2 of API 650.
9. The replacement shell plate thickness ≥ thickness of the shell

course where replacement is proposed and dimensions and spacing
shall be as per Figure 9-1.
10. Lap-welded patch plates can be used only if:
a. owner specifies
b. only on shell plates ≤ ½ inch
c. must be within spacing requirements as per Fig. 9-1
d. maximum size 48” vertical x 72 horizontal and minimum
dimension 4”
e. areas on which lap patch is to be put shall be UT checked
f. lap on lap is not permitted
11. All shell plate defects like the cracks, gauges, tears, widely
scattered .pits and corroded areas shall be evaluated case by case
as per chapter 4 of API 653.
12. New reinforcements can be added to existing unreinforced nozzles

as per Fig. 9-3a and 9-3b.
13. Repairs within critical zone of the bottom require additional

precautions like “Tombstone” type patch and additional PT or MPI
testing after visual examination of patch welds, and weld shall be
made by minimum 2 passes.
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14. If impact test was not done on original tank material, the hot taps
shall be limited to NPS 4 (max).
15. Toe-to-toe minimum spacing between hot tap and adjacent nozzle
shall be = where R= tank shell radius in inches T is shell plate
thickness in inches.
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DAILY EXAM 3 (OPEN)

Note: Tick only one alternative which you think is most appropriate.
1. Typical corroded areas on a shell plate are exhibited below in Figure

1 with measured thickness in inches indicated on the sketch. The
minimum required thickness of the shell plate is 0.750” and C.A.
required is 0.15”.
Figure 1
0.65 X AREA “A”
0.66 x
x 0.72
x 0.54 AREA “B”
x 0.75
x 0.72
x 0.66 AREA “C”
x 0.75
0.72
The total length of arrow line drawn is 8 inches. The length of

the line in each of the corroded areas A, B and C are 1.5”,
0.3” and 0.2” respectively. Comment on the acceptability of
the corroded condition.
a. Acceptable
b. Not acceptable
c. Conduct a patch plate repair
d. The pitting can be ignored as a case of widely scattered
pitting
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DAILY EXAM 3 (OPEN)

2. A tank is constructed as per API 650. Its original thickness is 0.500
inch. Its diameter is 25 feet and height is 15 feet. After 10 years,
the tank is inspected and the following readings are recorded on the
shell. Figure 2 exhibits a corroded portion of the developed shell of
the tank from the inside. The designed corrosion allowance is
0.125”. Minimum thickness (t2) is among the following readings.
Plane A Plane B Plane C Plane D
0.345 0.500 0.450 0.480
0.400 0.450 0.400 0.475
0.500 0.435 0.330 0.315
0.480 0.475 0.350 0.275
0.495 0.485 0.375 0.300
0.480 0.450 0.400 0.350
0.485 0.470 0.425 0.400
Figure 2
What is the minimum thickness recorded?
a. 0.315”
b. 0.275”
c. 0.330”
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DAILY EXAM 3 (OPEN)

d. all of the above
3. Calculate the critical L dimension for this condition
a. 9.7”
b. 40”
c. 12”
d. All of the above
4. For the same conditions of Figure 2 if the location of the bottom of

the critical length is 2 feet from the tank floor and the designed
liquid height is 12 feet what is the value of H in the formula for
calculating tmin?
a. 3 feet
b. 15 feet
c. 10 feet
d. 13 feet
5. Find the value of S which may be assumed for the lower course of
old tank for calculating tmin considering the fact that the material is
A516 gr 70.
a. 30,000 psi
b. 18,000 psi
c. 23,995 psi
d. 23,595 psi
6. Find the value of the allowable stress in the first shell course
of the conditions of the tank considered in above question if
material is not known.
a. 4680 psi
b. 23600 psi
c. 2550 psi
d. 30000 psi
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DAILY EXAM 3 (OPEN)
7. From the data of Figure 2, which of the plane above will be

considered to calculate t1?
a. Plane a
b. Plane b
c. Plane c
d. Plane d
8. What will be the value of t1 for above question?
a. 0.380”
b. 0.397”
c. 0.468”
d. 0.371”
9. 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:
a. Repaired or replaced
b. Found to be acceptable
c. Repair is prohibited
d. Replacement is mandated
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DAILY EXAM 3 (OPEN)
10. 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.
a. 10
b. 5
c. 8
d. 6
11. Vertical welds must be fully radiographed if the shell

thickness exceeds inches:
a. 3/4
b. 1
c. 1 - 1/4
d. 1-½
12. Anticipated minimum thickness of tank bottom where

bottom / foundation design provides for leak detection and
containment is:
a. 0.10 inch
b. 0.05 inch
c. 0.09 inch
d. same as without leak detection and containment
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DAILY EXAM 3 (OPEN)

Answer Key

1 A API 653, 4.3.2.2
2 B API 653, 4.3.2.1 (a)
3 A API 653, 4.3.2.1 (b)
4 C API 653, 4.3.3.1
5 A API 653, Table 4-1
6 B API 653, 4.3.3.1
7 D API 653, 4.32.1 (c)
8 D API 653, 4.32.1 (c)
9 B API 653, 4.2.1.2
10 B API 653, 4.3.2.1 (c)
11 B API 650, Fig. 6-1
12 B API 653, Table 6-1
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DAILY EXAM 3 (OPEN)

Solution
Q1. The pits are acceptable if:
a. Thickness at bottom of pit (excluding C.A.) ≥ ½ tmin.; and

b. Sum of dimensions in 8” length ≤ 2”
In the example,
a. The minimum thickness at bottom of the pit = 0.54”

The thickness excluding C.A. = 0.54 – 0.15 = 0.39”
This thickness ≥ ½ tmin
0.39” ≥ ½ (0.75), i.e., 0.39” ≥ 0.375” ---------- OK
b. Total sum = 1.5 +0.3+ 0.2 = 2” - - - - - - - - - OK
ANSWER: A
Q2. Minimum thickness (t2) = 0.275

ANSWER: B
Q3. L= = = 9.7
ANSWER: A
Q4. Liquid height = 12’

H = 12’ – 2’ = 10’
ANSWER: C
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DAILY EXAM 3 (OPEN)

Solution
Q5. Refer Table 4-1

S = 30,000 psi
ANSWER: A
Q6. Consider the value for:

Y = 30,000 psi and
T = 55,000 psi
Refer Table 4-1
ANSWER: B
Q7. The total of thicknesses taken on plane D works out to =

2.595” which is smallest of all planes A, B, C, and D.
ANSWER: D
Q8. Value of t1 = 2.73 / 7 = 0.371”

ANSWER: D
Q9. The thickness is more than 0.09” - - - - - - - OK

ANSWER: B
Q10. ANSWER: B
Q11. ANSWER: B
Q12. ANSWER: B
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1. For tank relocation, the bottom, shell or roof may be cut in
any size from existing tank so that the pieces are suitable
for transportation.
2. For dismantling the tank the bottom may be cut 12” away
from shell to bottom weld, if entire bottom plates are to be
used.
3. Alternatively cut the bottom and shell at 1/2” from toe of

shell to bottom weld and discard the weld portion.
4. For rest of the bottom, de-seaming of welds or cutting 2”

away from weld may be done.
5. Shell plates ≤ ½” thk may be dismantled by cutting

through weld without removing HAZ. If shell plate thk >
½”, discard welds + HAZ.
6. Alternatively, shell plates may be cut 6” away from

existing welds.
7. NDT for Repair / Alteration:
PT / MT: For all fillet welds and fill-up (weld-build up)

during repair or alteration
8. Radiography:
a. New welds during repair or alteration between the plates such
as:
(i) New to new plates — same as API 650

(ii) New to old plates or old to old plates.
Additional examination:
- 1 spot for each 50 feet for horizontal weld
- 1 spot on each vertical weld
- 1 radiograph on each T-joint
b. Repair of old butt-welds — entire length of repair
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9. A full hydrostatic test (held for 24 hours) is required on

major repairs and major alterations which include:
a. Installation of nozzles larger than NPS 12 below

liquid level
b. Repair / Replacement of more than 12” length of
vertical weld in shell or radial weld in anular plates
c. Any repair / replacement on shell to bottom weld
d. Jacking of tank shell
Exemption for hydrotest is possible only if owner /

operator and the tank engineer give the exemption in
writing.
10. Hydrostatic test of reconstructed tank is compulsory.
11. Out of plumbness for reconstructed tank is 1/100 of the

tank height subject to maximum 5 inches.
12. For tank settlement survey, the number of elevation

measurement points for tank diameter D ft. is given by:
N=D/10, but minimum 8.
13. Permitted internal settlement (for bulge or depression) is

given by:
B = 0.37 R
Where B = Max. height of bulge or depth of settlement
(inches)
And R = Radius of largest inscribing circle (feet)
14. Based on Fig. B-10, and B-11 maximum allowable edge

settlement is worked out depending on settled area being
approximately parallel or perpendicular to shell.
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15. As per API RP 575, the grounding connection inspection shall be
included is external visual inspection. Total resistance from tank
to soil should not exceed approximately 25 ohms.
16. Ultrasonic thickness measurements as a minimum must be made

on at least one TML on each shell course. TMLs also shall be
established on top uncoated portion of shell for floating roof
tanks.
17. For internal inspection of tank bottoms, a preliminary random

thickness scanning survey is carried out in X pattern across the
tank and along the circumference. If significant corrosion is
detected, entire bottom shall be scanned.
18. For internal inspection of shell, the major areas of focus shall be
the vapour space, liquid-vapour interface and the bottom area.
19. Leak testing of shell may be done hydrostatically or by using

diesel test or by vacuum box test.
20. Leak testing of bottom may be done by:
a. Using vacuum box test

b. By construction of clay dam around tank and filling under
side by water (observe seepage inside)
c. Apply seal to tank outer perimeter and introduce
compressed air below tank bottom, check welds by
applying soap solution or by observing bubbles by filling
inside of tank by water for 6” height
d. By injecting inert gas with tracer gas under the tank and
using “sniffers” inside to detect leakage
21. Hammer test is never carried out on cast iron parts.
22. Corrosion rate curves are helpful as an important record of

corrosion behavior of tank in past and anticipated remaining life
in future.
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Note: Encircle the letter of only one alternative which you think is most appropriate.
1. A hydrostatic test for a relocated tank:
a. May be waived by the Owner/Operator

b. Is required
c. May be waived by the Inspector
d. Is not necessary
2. Minimum thickness of tank bottom in critical zone shall be at

least 0.1 inch but also it shall be:
a. Greater of: ½ tmin for lowest shell course and half of

original thickness in critical zone
b. Smaller of: ½ tmin for lowest shell course and half of
original thickness in critical zone
c. 0.1” only
d. 0.05” as from Table 6-1, if leak detection system is
provided
3. During the hydrostatic test, no less than _______ settlement

measurement points shall be surveyed.
a. 8
b. 10
c. 15
d. 5
4. For vacuum box test, a partial vacuum of at least _______ shall

be used using _________ to check the cracks.
a. 3 psi, penetrating oil

b. 5 psi, water immersion
c. 3 psi, film solution
d. 5 psi, liquid penetrant
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5. Which tests are usually conducted to verify acceptability of shell
to bottom plate welds?
a. Penetrating oil
b. RT
c. Vacuum box test
d. “a” and “c”
6. Except for cast iron parts, internal coils and supports may be:
a Dye penetrant tested

b. Leak tested
c. Hammer tested
d. Magnetic particle tested
7. At the next out-of-service inspection on a tank that has had a

hot tap performed, the visual inspection should include:
a. Size of the hot tap nozzle holes

b. Thickness of the plate at the hot tap
c. Height of the hot tap from the tank bottom
d. Trimming of the hot tap nozzle holes
8. The term “roof drain” is applicable for which type of tanks?
a. Tanks with a breather device installed on the roof

b. High octane fuel tanks (Dome roof tanks)
c. Tanks with floating roofs (open top-tanks)
d. Tanks with internal floating roof
9. Industry experience and laboratory test have shown that a

membrane stress in tank shell plates of at least _______ is
required to cause failure due to brittle fracture?
a. 500 psi
b. 100 Mpa
c. 7 ksi
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d. 18 kg/mm2
10. Which of the following is an advantage of magnetic particle
testing over penetrant testing?
a. it can detect surface discontinuities with foreign material
imbedded in them
b. It is faster on individual parts
c. It can detect near-surface discontinuities
d. All of the above
11. Which of the following types of discontinuities is not normally

detected by radiography?
a. Cracks
b. Incomplete penetration
c. Laminations
d. Slag
12. The reason for periodical inspection of ASTs is to:
a. Determine their physical condition

b. Determine the rate of deterioration
c. Maintain safe operating conditions
d. All of the above
13. Resistance of grounding connection shall not be,
a. more than 25 Ohms

b. less than 1 Meg-Ohm
c. less than 25 Ohms
d. more than 5 Ohms
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14. Internal inspection is primarily to:
a. All of the below

b. Ensure that the bottom is not corroded and leaking;
c. Gather data for shell assessment
d. Identify and evaluate bottom settlement.
15. Repairs on butt welds shall be radiographically examined by:
a. Full radiography over entire repaired length of weld

b. 1 spot on repair portion for each vertical weld
c. 1 spot on each 50’ for horizontal weld
d. “b” and “c”
16. The API 653 standard covers the maintenance inspection,

repairs, alteration, relocation and reconstruction of tanks
constructed to ____________ as basic standards though it
may be adopted for other tanks also.
a. ASME
b. API 651
c. API 652
d. API 650
17. The complete or partial removal and replacement of more

than 12 inches of a vertical weld joining shell plates is
considered a:
a. minor alteration
b. minor repair
c. major alteration
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d. major repair
18. The difference between peaking and banding is:

a. peaking pertains to the roof;
b. banding is external to the tank;
c. peaking pertains to vertical weld seams, banding
pertains to horizontal weld seams;
d. peaking pertains to horizontal weld seams, banding
pertains to vertical weld seams.
19. 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:
a. Twenty
b. Five
c. Ten
d. Fifteen
20. The minimum retirement thickness of an annular plate ring is

usually greater than:
a. 0.10 inch
b. 0.25 inch
c. 0.0625 inch
d. 0.1875 inch
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Answer Key

1 B API 653, 12.3.1.1 (a)
2 B API 653, 4.4.7.4
3 A API 653, 12.5.1.2
4 C API 650, 6.6.3
5 D API 653, 12.1.6.1
6 C API 574, 7.4.9
7 D API 653, 9.14. + General Knowledge
8 C General Knowledge for Tank Inspector
9 C API 653, 5.3.6
10 D General Knowledge for Any Inspector
11 C ASME V, Art. 2 + General Knowledge
12 D API 575, 5.1
13 A API 575, 7.2.6
14 A API 653, 6.4.1.1
15 A API 653, 12.1.3.20
16 D API 653, 1.1.1
17 D API 653, 12.3.1.2 (c)
18 C API 653, 10.5.4
19 B API 653, 6.3.2
20 A API 653, 4.4.8.1
21 --------- ---------------------------------------------------------
22
23
24
25
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1. WPS gives parameters to be used in production job, and must be
within ranges qualified by the PQR test.
2. Essential variables (EV), if changed require new procedure

qualification. Non-essential variables (NEV) may be changed
without new procedure qualification.
3. Bend test crack shall not exceed 1/8” in any direction for face
bend, root bend or side bend.
4. Supplementary essential variables (SEV) are considered as (EV)

only if there is impact strength requirement. Otherwise they are
“non-essential” variables.
5. Tensile test for procedure qualification is passed if failure is in:

a. Weld metal at strength>= Base metal SMTS or
b. Base metal at strength>= 95% of base metal SMTS.
6. P-numbers represent parent metal groupings of similar

composition and properties, i.e., similar strength and ductility.
F-numbers give similar usability aspects of filler material. A-
numbers give similar chem. comp. In “As welded” condition
7. For performance, 1G is flat, 2G is horizontal, 3G is vertical and

4G is overhead position. Pipe 5G qualifies 1G, 3G and 4G, but
pipe 6G qualifies all positions.
8. Welders who have not welded for more than 6 months on

a process, their qualification will expire for that process.
9. In Galvanic corrosion, current flows from anode to

cathode, therefore anode will lose metal and cathode will
gain. If we make the “component to be protected” cathodic
with respect to surrounding, it will not lose metal, thus will
be protected.
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10. As soil resistivity goes up, soil is less corrosive and vice-
versa. (Soil resistivity < 500 ohm-cm is highly corrosive, >
10,000 ohm-cm, is least corrosive.) Ref. Table 1-API 651
11. Cathodic protection methods: Galvanic and impressed

current
Galvanic current: Easy to install, cheap, easy to maintain,

but limited use. (Not suitable for large structure)
Impressed current: Expensive, but more effective, suitable

for large structures. Requires constant monitoring.
12. CP system survey intervals:
Impressed current:
Rectifier (power source) — Max. 2 months

Other components — Max. 1 year
Galvanic System (sacrificial anode system): Annually

CP survey records should be maintained normally for 5
years.
13. There are two main classes of linings:
a. Equal to or less than 20 mils (thin film linings) and

b. Greater than 20 mils (thick film linings).
2. The principal advantages for thin-film lining are lower cost and ease
of application compared to thick-film lining systems.
15. Thick-film, reinforced lining are less susceptible to mechanical

damage than thin film linings. They can provide sufficient strength
to bridge over small perforations of the supporting steel bottom
that may develop due to external corrosion.
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16. Temperature during blast cleaning and applying the linings shall be
3°C (5°F) above the dew-point temperature and relative humidity
not to exceed 80%.
----------------------------------- End -----------------------------------------
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1. Guided bend test represents:
a. Ductility of weld
b. Strength of weld
c. Soundness of weld
d. Both soundness and ductility of weld
2. All positions of groove welds are qualified by

a. pipe positions 1G and 5G
b. pipe positions 2G and 5G
c. pipe position 6G only
d. b and c
3. According to ASME Sec. IX, A welder for SMAW can be

qualified by following minimum tests:
a. 1 tensile and 2 bend tests
b. 2 bend tests only
c. 2 tensile tests and 1 bend tests
d. 1 tensile and 1 radiography
4. Procedure Qualification Record is a document which can be

revised time to time.
a. True
b. False
c. Depends on company policy
d. Depends on client of the company
5. Use of Radiography is made for:
a. Performance qualification only.

b. Procedure qualification only
c. Both a and b
d. Use of Radiography is not permitted by ASME Sec. IX.
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6. Procedure Qualification is done by:
a. 1 Tensile and 2 bend tests

b. 1 tensile and 1radiography
c. 1 bend test and 1 radiography
d. 2 Tensile and 4 bend tests
7. Which of the following represent grouping of weld-metals in

ASME IX?
a. P - Nos
b. F - Nos
c. S - Nos
d. A - Nos
8. For A 516 gr 60 (SMTS = 60000 psi) material, following results

were obtained for two tensile test specimens in PQR
qualification.
Specimen T1: failed in B.M. at 57,400 psi
Specimen T2: failed in weld metal, at 59,500 psi

Your assessment is:
a. PQR test is ok since both are within acceptance criteria

b. PQR test is rejected as both T1 and T2 are not within
acceptance criteria
c. PQR in rejected because T1 is ok but T2 has failed
d. PQR in rejected because T1 is failed thoughT2 is ok
9. Based on a measured corrosion of 0.006" annually and using a

corrosion allowance of 0.120", what is the interval for the next
UT thickness measurements on shell are required for AST?
(a) 10 years
(b) 6.5 years
(c) 20 years
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(d) 15 years
10. 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
11. Impressed current system results in following advantages

compared to Galvanic System.
a. Can be used for large structures
b. Maintenance cost is lower
c. Installation is cheaper and easier
d. No external power supply required
12. Power source for impressed current system shall be checked at

intervals not exceeding:
a. Annually
b. Six months
c. Two months
d. Five years
13. Thick film lining means thickness:

a. Greater than 10 mils
b. Equal or greater than 20 mils
c. Greater than 20 mils
d. Equal or greater than 10 mils
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14. Sand blasting and painting operations shall not be performed if
humidity exceeds:
a. 90%
b. 80%
c. 85%
d. 95%
15. Which of the following statement is correct?
a. Soil resistivity is a measure of resistance offered by soil to

drilling operation for oil exploration and it has no
connection with corrosivity of soil.
b. Lower soil resistivity indicates less corrosive soil.
c. Soil resistivity has nothing to do with corrosive ness of soil
because soil corrosion depends on the amount of corrosive
chemicals present in the soil.
d. Higher soil resistivity indicates less corrosive soil.
16. The preferred method for inspecting non-metallic coating is:
a. Visual inspection only

b. Holiday detection
c. M.P. check
d. D.P. check
17. The accuracy of a piece of magnetizing equipment that is

equipped with an ammeter shall be verified:
a. Each year
b. Each two years
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c. When possible
d. Every 6 months
18. It is decided to carryout a surface NDT for austenitic S.S. welds.

Choose a best combination.
a. Penetrant testing with Halogen free developer

b. Penetrant testing with any aqueous developer
c. Magnetic particle testing with wet particles
d. Magnetic particle testing with dry particles
19. In ultrasonic testing, for thickness measurement on corroded

surface, use:
a. CRT read out

b. Digital read out
c. Any of above
d. None of above
20. For which of the following can yoke technique be used?
a. Sub-surface cracks
b. Surface cracks
c. Both a and b
d. For none of a and b
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Answer Key

1 D ASME Sec. IX, QW – 141.2
2 D ASME Sec. IX, Table QW – 461.9
3 B ASME Sec. IX, Table QW – 452.1
4 B ASME Sec. IX, QW – 200.2 (c)
5 A ASME Sec. IX, QW – 142
6 D ASME Sec. IX, QW – 451.1
7 D ASME Sec. IX, Table QW – 442
8 C ASME Sec. IX, QW - 153
9 A API 653, 6.3.3.2 (b)
10 B API 650, 3.6.3.1
11 A API 651, 6.3.3
12 C API 651, 11.3.3.1
13 C API 652, 6.1
14 B API 652, 7.4 and 8.3
15 D API 651, Table 1
16 B API 575, 7.4.7
17 A ASME Sec. V, T-761
18 A ASME Sec. V, T-641
19 A ASME Sec. V, SE – 797, Para. 8
20 B ASME Sec. V, T – 776.1
21 --------- ---------------------------------------------------------
22
23
24
25
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1. GENERAL:
a. ASME Sec. V is NDT procedure/methods code and is

applicable only if it is referenced by the relevant
construction code. The extent of NDT and acceptance
standards is given in relevant construction code.
b. NDT equipment and their calibration shall be as per ASME

Sec. V.
c. Examiner is NDT person in employment of fabricator or

repair organization. Inspector means Authorized Inspector
who finally accepts/rejects NDT results.
2. FOR RT:
a. Satisfactory radiograph shall meet requirements of density and

IQI image (2T hole for hole type and designated wire for wire
type).
b. Backscatter:
Light image of B on dark background - Unacceptable
c. Density Limitations:
Min 1.8 for X Ray / 2.0 for G-Ray

Max 4.0 for X / G Ray
Density Variation = -15 % to + 30%
d. Double wall viewing (DWDI) - Up to 3.5” outside diameter
e. Penetrameter Selection: Table T-276. Thickness includes weld

reinforcement. But not backing.
f. Penetrameter shall be normally placed on source side. If not

possible, it may be placed on film side with lead letter “F”.
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3. FOR PT:
a. Control of Contaminants: Sulphur (for Nickel alloys)
shall not exceed 1% of residue. Chlorine + Fluorine (for
S.S. and Titanium) shall not exceed 1% of residue.
b. Temp. shall be between 10oC to 52oC, for standard
procedures.
c. Penetrants are colour (visible) type and fluorescent
type. Each of these have:
 water washable
 post emulsifying
 solvent removable
Thus, total 6 categories of penetrant are available.
d. Emulsifier is applied after applying penetrant and
required dwell time is completed. Lipopholic emulsifier
is applied without pre-rinsing. Hydropholic emulsifier is
applied after pre-rinsing.
e. For dwell time for penetrant and developer refer Table
T-672.
f. After applying developer, interpretation shall be done
within 10 to 60 minutes.
g. All penetrant materials should be from same
manufacturer.
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4. FOR MT:
a. Prod Technique:
- Use direct (rectified) current for magnetization
- Prod spacing 3” to 8”
- Useful for surface and sub-surface defects.
b. Yoke Technique:
- Use D.C. or A.C. or permanent magnet
- Suitable for surface defects only.
c. Calibration:
Equipment Ammeter to be calibrated once a year
comparing with standard Ammeter, take 3
readings. Deviation shall not exceed ±10% of full
scale.
d. Lifting Power of Yokes

- AC shall have lifting power of at least 4.5 kg (10 lbs.)
- DC shall have lifting power of at least 18.1 kg(40 lbs.)
e. Minimum two examinations on each area, the second is

perpendicular to first
5. SE-797 UT MEASUREMENT:
a. Pulse-echo method can be adopted up to 200°F
b. Apparatus: 3 types
- CRT read out
- CRT + direct read out
- Direct thickness read out
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c. Search Units: 3 types

- Straight beam contact type
- Delay line type (delay block to minimize dead zone)
- Dual element type. There are two crystals set at
a small range. Low roof angle used for higher
range and higher angle for low range.
d. High thickness measurement:
Use of multiple echoes is made. (i.e., for thickness between

50 mm and 60mm, use 10mm calibration block then 5th
back echo will be 50 mm and 6th will be 60mm. Set the 5th
echo to zero and 6th at the screen range. The screen is
calibrated to 50-60mm.
e. While taking measurement for high temperature condition a

positive error of 1% per 55°C (100°F) results. Hence
temperature correction is necessary.
f. CRT read out is recommended on corroded and rough surface.

----------------------------------- End ----------------------------
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WPS / PQR PRACTICE QUIZ - OPEN BOOK

(Refer to Attached PQR / WPS Documents)
1. Choose correct statement from the following:
a. The PQR shows root spacing of 1/8” and same shall be

followed in production welding.
b. PQR shows beval angle 37°. It shall be followed in
production welding without change.
c. PQR does not show backing ring, hence production weld
also can not be with backing ring
d. None of above is correct statement.
2. What condition below describes the results of the guided bend

test?
a. The three bend tests are acceptable and the fourth one
is not acceptable
b. The test result overall is acceptable
c. The test result is not acceptable due to the linear indication
d. The bend test result is indeterminable, carry out retest.
3. What welding process is qualified by this PQR?
a. GTAW
b. SMAW
c. GMAW
d. SAW
4. What is the P number and the tensile strength of SA-106-C?
a. P No. 1 and 70 ksi

b. P No. 1 and 60 ksi
c. P No. 3 and 70 ksi
d. P No. 3 and 60 ksi
5. In accordance with the PQR, the WPS is qualified for what

welding positions?
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a. Flat and horizontal

b. Flat, vertical, overhead and horizontal
c. Vertical and overhead
d. All positions
6. What is the F No. of an E 7010 electrode?
a. F no. 4
b. F No. 3
c. F No. 2
d. F No. 1
7. The welder who welded the test plate for PQR 101 is qualified to
weld in what position?
a. Flat
b. Flat and horizontal
c. Flat and vertical
d. Flat, vertical and horizontal
8. The bend test specimen used are side bend. They are:
a. Not accepted since 2 face bend and 2 root bend must be used
b. Accepted since as alternative to (a) 4 side bend may be used
c. Accepted since only 2 bend tests are required where as 4 bend
tests are performed
d. Not accepted since all 3 types of bend tests (face, root, side)
are required.
9. As far as thickness ranges for Base Metal (B.M.) and weld metal
(W.M.) as shown on WPS are concerned, your decision about the
qualified range is:
a. B.M. is okay and W.M. is not okay.

b. Both B.M. and W.M. are okay.
c. Both B.M. and W.M. are not okay.
d. W.M. is okay and B.M. is not okay.
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10. In production welds, if groove design is changed to double V

groove for the qualified base metal thickness, as per ASME Sec.
IX will you:
a. Accept the change — since it is non-essential variable

b. Will not accept — since it is essential variable
c. Accept only if okay by radiography
d. Accept only if okay by both radiography and UT
11. Based on the specimen areas provided in PQR, are the ultimate
stress calculations correct (as rounded up to psi) for specimen T 1
and T2:
a. Calculation is okay for T1 alone.

b. Calculation is okay for T2 alone.
c. Calculations for both are okay.
d. Calculations for both are not okay.
12. Which condition below best describes the result of tensile tests
reported on the PQR?
a. Test T1 & T2 are acceptable

b. Test T1 & T2 are unacceptable
c. Test T1 is acceptable & T2 is unacceptable
d. Test T1 is unacceptable & T2 is acceptable
13. If electrode E7010 shown on WPS is changed to E7018, what is

your decision?
a. Revise WPS to show the change and re-submit as new

revision
b. No revision of WPS is necessary as both belong to same F
number.
c. A new PQR will be required to support the change.
d. No revision of WPS required but show the change in same

PQR and submit it as new revision
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WPS / PQR PRACTICE QUIZ (OPEN BOOK)

Answer Key

1 D Table QW – 253. Options a, b, c are non-essential variables.
2 B QW – 163
3 B See PQR format 4th line from top
4 A Table QW - 422
5 D QW – 203
6 B Table QW - 432
7 A Table QW – 461.9
8 B Table QW - 451.1 and Note 3
9 D Table QW - 451.1
10 A Table QW - 253. QW 402.1
11 C General knowledge. Stress = Load / Area
12 D QW – 153 (a) and (d)
13 C Table QW - 432
---------------------------------- End -------------------------------
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API 653 PREPARATORY

IMPORTANT CLOSED BOOK QUESTIONS
API 653 Third Edition
No. QUESTION CODE CLAUSE
1 Definition of the Critical zone API653 3.7
2 Definition of Change of Service API653 3.9
3. Minimum thickness of corroded roof plate API653 4.2.1.2
4. Limits of L API653 4.3.2.1
5. Definition of widely scattered pits API653 4.3.2.2
6. Causes for shell distortion API653 4.3.5.2
7. Cracks in the shall to bottom weld – what should be API653 4.3.6
done
8. What is the reason for the distortion of anchor bolts & API653 4.5.3
excessive cracking of concrete structures
9. Tanks fabricated from steels of unknown toughness, API653 5.3.7
thickness less than ½” can be operated at above
what minimum shell metal temperature
10. Interval for routine In-service inspection API653 6.3.1.2
11. Who shall carry out External Inspection API653 6.3.2.1
12. Interval for External inspection API653 6.3.2.1
13. How is the external inspection of Insulated tank API653 6.3.2.2
carried out
14. What is the method of external inspection of Tank API653 6.3.2.3
grounding system
15. Interval for ultrasonic thickness inspection API653 6.3.3
16. If internal inspection is solely for the purpose of API653 6.4.1.2
determining the condition & integrity of tank bottom
what is the method of inspection
17. alternative Internal Inspection method API653 6.4.3
18. What is the bottom plate minimum thickness API653 Table
6-1
19. Construction records shall include the following API653 6.8.2
information
20. New material for tank reconstruction shall comply to API653 7.2
which standard
21. Welding consumables shall conform to which API653 7.4
specification
22. What are the minimum dimensions for a replacement API653 9.2.2.1
shell
23. The corners of a repair plate shall be rounded to what API653 9.3.1.4
minimum radius
24. Insert plate having higher thickness than the shall API653 9.8.2(c)
plate shall be tapered to

25. Minimum thk. of new roof to be used for repair for a API653 9.11.1.1
fixed roof shall be
26. The minimum height of tank liquid above hot tap API653 9.14.1.2
location shall be at least
27 During hot tapping operation welding will be done API653 9.14.2.3
using which electrodes
28. Are hot taps permitted on the roof of a tank API653 9.14.2.4
29. The maximum allowed undercutting for horizontal API653 10.4.2.5
joints of a reconstructed tank is
30. If the material specification for the steel from an API653 11.1.2
existing tank is unknown or obsolete, how do you
qualify the welding procedure
31. At what intervals Welders identification shall be API653 11.2.2
marked adj. to welds
32. What alternative methods are used to inspect the API653 12.1.7.1
integrity of the welded bottom joint
33. Areas of bottom plate repaired by welding in addition API653 12.1.7.3
to MT/PT are any other testing done.
34. The minimum diagnostic length of each radiograph is API653 12.2.1.7
35. For penetration installed using insert plates , butt weld API653 12.2.1.8
between the insert plate & shell plate shall be
radiographed to what extent
36. Hydrostatic test of a reconstructed tank shall be held API653 12.3.1.1
for how long time.
37. At what intervals shall settlement be measured during API653 12.5.2
hydrotest
38. The maximum spacing across diameter over which API653 Fig. B-2
measurements of bottom settlement are taken is
39. Internal Bottom settlement formula API653 B-3-3
40. What is the NDT Inspector Qualification requirement API653 F 4.3
for carrying out UT during tank repair?
41 UT procedure shall follow which Code/Standard API653 F 4.4
API 653 PREPARATORY

IMPORTANT OPEN BOOK QUESTIONS
API 653 Third Edition
No. QUESTION CODE CLAUSE
1 Calculate the t min. welded tank shell API653 4.3.3.1
2 What is the maximum allowable stress for bottom &
API653 4.3.3.1
second course
3. To change the service of the tank to above 200°F
API653 4.2.4.4
what requirements are to be met
4. What is the maximum allowable stress for
API653 4.3.3.1
reconstructed tank
5. What is the maximum allowable stress for revited tank API653 4.3.4.1
6. Annular bottom plate thickness (Sp. Gr. < 1.0) API653 Table 4-4
7. Assessment of the safe use of a tank constructed of
API653 Fig. 5.2
unknown materials
8. What records shall be maintained by the Owner /
API653 6.8.1
Operator
9. What are the material specifications for structural
API653 7.3.2
materials
10. Shell design for a reconstructed tank, with materials
whose allowable stresses are not given in Table 3-2 of API653 8.4.2
API 650, what allowable stresses are to be taken
11. After the valve has been installed on the flange at
API653 9.14.5.3
what pressure the pressure test shall be performed
12. In tank re-construction, new vertical joints in adjacent
API653 10.4.2.1
shell courses shall be offset by what minimum distance
13. During tank reconstruction / repair what is the
API653 10.4.2.5
maximum allowed undercutting for vertical joints
14. What is the maximum reinforcement allowed for
API653 Table 10-1
horizontal joint of ¾” plate
15. In completed horizontal butt joints, the upper plate
API653 10.4.4.2
shall not project beyond the lower plate by how much
16. Calculation of Internal Bottom settlement or bulges API653 B.3.3
17. Problem on edge settlement API653 Fig B-10
18. For welding A516 Gr 70 materials what electrode
API650 2.8
classification shall be used
API 653 Preparatory
Page 1 of 14
FINAL EXAM (CLOSED)

Instructions:
Choose only one answer, which you think is most appropriate.
Use the attached answer sheet in answering the following questions.
1. The complete or partial removal and replacement of more than

12 inches of a vertical weld joining shell plates is considered a:
(a) minor alteration; (b) minor repair;

(c) major alteration; (d) major repair.
2. 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:
a. 4.0
b. 1.8
c. 2.0
d. 1.3
3. Cathodic protection is achieved by directing the flow of current

from:
a. A cathode to anode
b. An anode to cathode
c. Both installations are acceptable
d. Neither of a and b
4. __________ is a change from previous operating conditions

involving different properties of the stored product such as
specific gravity or corrosivity and / or different service conditions
of temperature and / or pressure:
(a) Re-rating; (b) Change in service;
(c) Repair; (d) Reconstruction
5. Describe how a liquid penetrant examination should be

performed in order to detect discontinuities which are open to
the surface.
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Page 2 of 14
FINAL EXAM (CLOSED)

a. Clean the part, apply the developer, apply the penetrant,
remove excess penetrant, inspect the part, clean the part
b. Clean the part, apply 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
6. A radiographic technique in which radiation passed through two

walls and both the walls are viewed on the same radiograph
(double wall, double image – ellipse) the limitation for the outside
diameter is:
a. 3-1/2”
b. 2”
c. 4”
d. Any diameter possible
7. Information needed when determining the rate of corrosion:
a. Original thickness or last inspection thickness

b. Current thickness
c. Length of time in service
d. All the above
8. The maximum acceptable undercutting for base metal in

reconstructed tank for horizontal welds is:
(a) 1/64"; (b) 1/32"; (c) 1/16"; (d) 1/8"
9. Tank was inspected in 1985 and the thickness was observed to

be 0.32 inch. The thickness observed during inspection in 1995
was 0.30 inch. What is corrosion rate?
a. 2 mpy
b. 20 mpy
c. 0.2 mpy
d. 1 mpy
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Page 3 of 14
FINAL EXAM (CLOSED)
10. If remaining corrosion allowance (RCA) at present is 0.05 inch,

the next thickness inspection due for above tank shall not be
later than:
a. 10 years
b. 15 years
c. 6 years
d. 12.5 years
11. A corroded area of a tank bottom plate is repaired by welding

overlay. There is no change in the rating and no change is made
on the nameplate. Which of the following is the correct term to
describe this process?
a. Reconstruction
b. Repair
c. Alteration
12. The maximum interval between internal inspections shall not

exceed ____ years when corrosion rate is known:
(a) 10; (b) 20; (c) 5; (d) 15.
13. Hot taps are not permitted under which of the following
conditions?
a. On plates requiring PWHT.

b. On ultrasonically sound plate
c. On tanks with dia. more than 80 feet.
d. None of the above.
14. A tank of 160 ft diameter is to be checked for shell settlement.

Minimum number of equally spaced settlement points to be
checked will be:
a. 16
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API 653 Preparatory
Page 4 of 14
FINAL EXAM (CLOSED)

b. 20
c. 24
d. 12
15. For a tank made by reconstruction, under what circumstances

may a new shell-to-bottom weld be exempt from hydrostatic
testing?
a. When the root pass has been visually inspected and

the final weld is fully examined, visually and
radiographically.
b. Reconstructed tank is never exempted from
hydrostatic testing.
c. When the root pass has been visually inspected and
the final weld is fully examined, visually and by
vacuum box.
d. When the welding method has been reviewed and
approved by an engineer experienced in tank design
in accordance with API Standard 650.
16. In atmospheric conditions, bottom coatings may be applied if the

steel temperature is:
a. 2°F above the dew point

b. 5°F below the dew point.
c. 10°F above the dew point.
d. At the dew point.
17. Procedure qualification for welding during repair of tanks is done

in accordance with:
a. AWS D1.1
b. API 1104
c. ASME Section IX
d. All of the above
18. Widely scattered pits may be ignored under the following

conditions
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Page 5 of 14
FINAL EXAM (CLOSED)

a. Where the service fluid is corrosive or hard to hold.
b. If sum of pit lengths along any 8” vertical line does not
exceed 2”
c. When no pit has depth which results in the minimum
thickness being less than one-half the minimum acceptable
thickness of the shell plate exclusive of corrosion allowance
d. b and c
19. For verification of radiographic sensitivity and image

quality, which of the following are used:
a. Cassettes
b. Penetrameters
c. Cameras
d. Collimators
20. Internal corrosion in the vapour space above liquid level occurs
due to:
a. Hydrogen Sulphide vapour

b. Water vapour
c. Oxygen
d. Any combination of the above three
21. API 650: Appendix M provides requirements for Tanks designed

to operate at the following range of temperatures:
a. Exceeding 260°C
b. Above 90° - 260°C
c. Below 90°C
d. Below 0°C
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Page 1 of 14
FINAL EXAM (CLOSED)

22. For a reconstructed tank as per API 653 Verticality (out-of-
plumbness) of top of the shell shall not exceed,
a. 1/300 of total tank height

b. 1/250 of total tank height
c. 1/400 of total tank height
23. When lining is applied to bottom on inside of tank, the lining

shall extend ___________ up the shell.
a. 6” min
b. 12” min
c. 18” min
d. 3” min
24. Hot tap can be performed on:
a. Vapour space in the shell

b. On the roof
c. In the shell below liquid level
d. Anywhere on the tank
25. A radiograph was having density near the penetrameter equal to

3.0. Hence the acceptable density range of the radiograph is:
a. 1.7 to 4
b. 2.55 to 3.9
c. 2.0 to 4.0
26. The examiner for conducting magnetic particle testing on the

tank welds shall be:
a. Qualified as per ASNT Level II or III

b. Able to read Jagger-2
c. Qualified as per ASME Sec. V
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Page 2 of 14
FINAL EXAM (CLOSED)

27. In atmospheric conditions, grit blasting can be done at
temperature of at least:
a. 2°F above the dew point.

b. 5°F below the dew point
c. 5°F above the dew point
d. At the dew point
28. How many equally spaced measurements are required for the
thickness averaging technique?
(a) 2 (b) 5 (c) 4 (d) 3
29. How many specimens must be used for impact tests from a
single test coupon or test location?
(a) 1 (b) 2 (c) 3 (d) 4
30. Hydrostatic tests shall be held for ____ hours for the
reconstructed tank.
(a) 2 (b) 8 (c) 24 (d) 72
31. In a radiographic film of a weld, how is back scatter

checked?
(a) By use of a penetrameter

(b) By film density
(c) Using lead letter “B”
(d) All of the above
32. In general, if shell thickness does not exceed ____ inch, it does
not require further assessment for brittle fracture:
(a) 0.25 (b) 0.75 (c) 1.00 (d) 0.50
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FINAL EXAM (CLOSED)
33. Potential for brittle fracture exists for tanks constructed

according to:
(a) API 650 – 7th edition
(b) API 650 – latest edition
(c) API 650 – 4th edition
(d) None of the above
34. Three types of external inspections are:

(a) Scheduled, routine and liquid penetrant
(b) Scheduled, routine and UT thickness
(c) Scheduled out of service, routine and UT thickness
(d) Unscheduled, routine and liquid penetrant
35. Welders qualifications shall expire as they do not weld:

(a) Within a given process for a 6 month period
(b) Using a given procedure for a 6 month period;
(c) On a tank for 6 months;
(d) For a 3 month period.
36. What are penetrameters used for:

(a) A penetrameter is used for radiographic technique in
that it serves as an image quality indicator
(b) It indicates the magnetic properties of the materials
(c) To check penetrant quality in PT inspection
(d) To check weld penetration during welding
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Page 1 of 14
FINAL EXAM (CLOSED)
37. Unless otherwise agreed to by the purchaser, what is the

minimum nominal width of a shell plate?
(a) 36 inches (b) 48 inches

(c) 72 inches (d) 96 inches
38. “Each vertical weld must be radiographed (either spot or full

radiography) for the bottom shell course (i.e., course no. 1) for
all tanks constructed to current API 650 Basic Standard.” This
statement is:
a. False
b. True
c. Whether any radiography is required or not depends
on shell thickness.
d. Depends on tank design Engineer’s opinion
39. According to ASME Sec. IX, welding filler metals are grouped into
groupings (based on their usability) as:
(a) P-numbers (b) F-numbers
(c) Z-numbers (d) ASTM spec.
40. When reviewing a radiograph, a light image of the letter B can

be seen on the film with dark background.
(a) This is cause for rejection
(b) This is not cause for rejection
(c) This is the same as a light letter B
(d) An unusual safety hazard existed during the
exposure
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Page 2 of 14
FINAL EXAM (CLOSED)

41. Which of the following penetrant system is generally considered
least sensitive?
a. Water-washable – visible dye
b. Solvent removable – visible dye
c. Water-washable – fluorescent dye
d. Post-emulsification – visible dye
42. The nondestructive examination method to be used for a

particular inspection should be determined by the:
a. Availability of certified NDE examiners
b. Length of time since the last inspection
c. Age of the component to be inspected
d. Type, location, and orientation of the expected flaws
43. Out of the following four options in LPT, most sensitive results
can be obtained by:
a. Visible penetrant – water washable
b. Fluroscent penetrant – post emulsifying type
c. Visible – solvent removable type
d. Visible – post emulsifying type
44. A PQR was qualified in 5G position using a new welder. But

production welding is to be done in 2G position. Which of the
following are applicable as a minimum?
a. Both procedure and welder shall be re-qualified in 2G

position.
b. The qualified procedure can be used ,only welder needs to be
re-qualified
c. The welder is qualified, but the procedure needs re-
qualification
d. Both procedure and welder need not be re-qualified.
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Page 3 of 14
FINAL EXAM (CLOSED)
45. Minimum thickness evaluation may be conducted by?
a. Use of an external micrometer only
b. Ultrasonic testing
c. D.P. Check
b. None of above
46. For procedure qualification documentation:
a. WPS gives the procedure test data and results of

tensile/bend test
b. PQR gives ranges qualified by procedure test
c. PQR gives procedure test data and WPS gives ranges
qualified
d. WPS and PQR both give test data and ranges qualified
47. Identify correct statement from following:

a. Tensile test for procedure qualification is passed only if base
metal failure occurs at or above Specified Minimum Tensile
Strength (SMTS) of base metal
b. Tensile test for procedure qualification is passed only if base
metal failure occurs above SMTS of base metal
c. Tensile test for procedure qualification is passed even if weld
metal failure occurs above 95% of SMTS of base metal
48. When using radiographs to qualify welder, the acceptance

standards used are found in:
a. ASME Section V
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Page 4 of 14
FINAL EXAM (CLOSED)

b. ASME Section IX
c. ASME Section VIII
d. The referencing code
49. An RBI assessment can be used to alter the internal inspection

strategy provided:
a) RBI is performed considering likelihood of failure and
consequence of failure.
b) The RBI is fully documented.
c) A third party conducts the RBI.
d) Both “a” and “b” above
50. You are reviewing a WPQ for a welder. The test results indicate
the following:
a. Satisfactory side bend

b. Face bend satisfactory
c. Visual satisfactory
Will these tests qualify the welder?
a. Yes
b. No, because bend tests are not correct type.
c. Not enough information given
d. No, because radiography is essential for welder
qualification
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API 653 Preparatory

Page 1 of 1
FINAL EXAM (CLOSED)

Answer Key
Q. Answer Reference Q. Answer Reference

1 D API 653, 12.3.1.2 (b) 26 B API 650, 6.2.3
2 C ASME V, T-282.1 27 C API 652, 7.4
3 B API 651, 4.4.1 28 B API 653, 4.3.2.1 (c)
4 B API 653, 3.7 29 C API 650, 2.2.8.3
5 B ASME V, T-600 30 C API 653, 12.3.1.1
6 A ASME V, T-271.2 (b) 31 C ASME V, T-284
7 D API 575, 7.6 32 D API 653, Fig. 5-2
8 B API 653, 10.4.2.5 33 C API 653, 5.3.2
9 A API 653, 3.8 34 B API 653, 6.3
10 D API 653, 6.3.3.2 (b) 35 A ASME IX, QW 322.1 (a)
11 B API 653, 3.15 36 A ASME V
12 B API 653, 6.4.2.1 37 C API 650, 3.6.12
13 A API 653, 9.14.1.1 38 B API 650, 6.1
14 A API 653, 12.5.1.2 39 B ASME IX, QW - 431
15 B API 653, 12.3.1.1 (a) 40 A ASME V, T-284
16 C API 652, 8.3 41 A ASME V, Art. 6
17 C API 653, 11.1.1 42 D General Knowledge
18 D API 653, 4.3.2.2 43 B ASME V, Gen. Knowledge
19 B ASME V, Art. 2 44 B ASME IX, Table QW-461.9
20 D API 575, 5.2.2 45 B General Knowledge
21 B API 650, 1.1.17 46 C ASME IX, QW – 200.2
22 D API 653, 10.5.2.1 47 D ASME IX, QW - 153
23 C API 652, 6.4 48 B ASME IX, QW – 191.2
24 C API 653, 9.14.1.2 49 D API 653, 6.4.3
25 C ASME V, Art. 2 50 B ASME IX, QW - 452
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API 653 Preparatory
Page 1 of 8
FINAL EXAM (OPEN)

Instructions:
Choose only one answer, which you think is most appropriate.
Use the attached answer sheet in answering the following questions.
1. Exclusive of corrosion allowance, what is the minimum nominal

thickness for all new construction bottom plates?
a. ½ inch
b. ¼ inch
c. 3/16 inch
d. 5/8 inch
2. For shell horizontal joints, how many additional radiographs shall

be taken for each 50 feet of horizontal joint, (not including those
required as per API 650) for welds made in existing plates during
the repair?
a. 1
b. 2
c. 3
d. 4
3. The recommended minimum development time (penetrant

testing) allowed for a material made of high temperature alloy
is:
a. 5 min
b. 10 min
c. 7 min
d. 60 min
4. Select suitable hole type (source side) penetrameter for

following weld joint:
Weld reinf. = 1/8" thk
7/8"
thk
a) Backing strip = 3/16" thk
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Page 2 of 8
FINAL EXAM (OPEN)
a) No. 20
b) No. 25
c) No. 30
d) None of the above
5. If type of penetrameter is Q.1 is changed to wire type what

shall be the wire designation (wire decimeter in inch)
a. 0.025 (No. 10)

b. 0.016 (No. 8)
c. 0.032 (No. 11)
6. For steel plates and weld to be checked LPI, what shall be the
penetration time for penetrant
a. 10 min for weld, 5 min for plate

b. 5 min for both
c. 10 min for both
d. 5 min for weld, 10 min for plate
7. After applying the dry developer the examiner checked four

welds for surface defects after following period, weld A- after 5
minute, weld B after 10 minute, weld C was checked after 30
minutes and weld D after 65 minutes which of the weld were
checked wrongly
a. Weld A and B
b. Weld C and D
c. Weld D only
d. Weld A and D
8. Following combination of base metal and welding electrode was

qualified by a certain PQR… impact testing is not required.
Base Metal =SA 285 GrC Plates, ¾” thk

Welding electrode = AWS E 6015
This PQR will qualify which of the following combination of base

metal- welding electrodes.
a. 1” thk SA 515Gr 60 plates, E 6013 electrodes
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API 653 Preparatory
Page 3 of 8
FINAL EXAM (OPEN)
b. 1 ¾ “ rhk SA 285 GrC plates, E 6013 electrodes

c. 1 ¼ thk plates SA 516Gr70, E 7018 electrodes
9. For MT examination by prod techniques the spacing between

prods shall be between
a. 4 inch to 12 inch
b. 4 inch to 10 inch
c. 3 inch to 10 inch
d. 3 inch to 8 inch
10. For a tank with 130 ft diameter thickness of top course worked
out was td=5mm tt=4mm. What will be minimum nominal
thickness provided for this course according to API 650 for a
new tank?
a. 3/16” (5mm)
b. 1/4” (6mm)
c. 5/16” (8mm)
11. For a tank with diameter 100ft was found to have thickness
reduction in a localized area. Minimum thickness observed (t2)
was 1 inch. What will be the critical vertical length of for the
area?
a. 40 inches
b. 37 inches
c. 45 inches
12. On a tank roof plate two corroded areas was observed at

locations A and B for location A, average thickness = 0.085
inches, area = 105 in2
Location B, average thickness = 0.095 inches, Area = 105 in2

your decision will be:
a. Both A and B are within limits

b. Location A is OK, location B is art of limits
c. Both A and B are out of limits
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Page 4 of 8
FINAL EXAM (OPEN)
d. Location B in OK, location A is out of limits
13. Hot tap connection is to be made on tank with following

description shell plate thickness = ¾ inch. Design temperature
= 30°F the plates were not tested for impact testing, (Consr.
Code API 650-1974). What will be the maximum size of tapping
connection?
a. 8 inches NPS
b. 6 inches NPS
c. 10 inches NPS
d. 4 inches NPS
14. A replacement plate to be used on a shell thickness of 5/8 inch,

on the second course of the tank. Thickness of first course and
third course is also 5/8 inch. Following 3 plates are available
which one is most suitable to be used as replacement plate.
a. Plate thickness = ¾”
b. Plate thickness = 5/8”
c. Plate thickness = 1/2”
d. Plate thickness = 1”
15. A tank is having remaining corrosion allowance of 2.5mm and

corrosion rate of the shell is 0.1mm per year. What will be
inspection interval for next ultrasonic thickness inspection from
outside of the tank?
a. 15 Years
b. 12.5 Years
c. 10 Years
d. 5 Years
16. Typical corroded areas on a shell plate are exhibited below in

figure 1 with measured thickness in inches indicated on the
sketch. The un-corroded thickness of the shell plate is 0.750
inches and C.A is 0.125”
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API 653 Preparatory
Page 5 of 8
FINAL EXAM (OPEN)
Figure 1
AREA “A”
0.65
0.66
0.72
0.54 AREA “B”
0.75
0.72
0
AREA “C”
0.75
The total length of a arrow line drawn is 8 inches. The length of the
line in each of the corroded areas A, B and C are 1.5”, 0.8” and 0.5
inches respectively.
Comment on the acceptability of the corroded condition.
a. The pitting can be ignored as a case of widely scattered

pitting as both pitting depth and dimensions are within
limits
b. Not acceptable as size are not OK, total length of the pit
dimensions is more than permitted
c. The pitting can be ignored as a case of widely scattered

pitting since depth are OK
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Page 6 of 8
FINAL EXAM (OPEN)
d. The pitting cannot be ignored as a case of widely scattered

pitting since depth are not OK
17. Two plates sample A and B were tested for longitudinal impact
testing. Following were results observed. They belonged to
Group No. I as per API 650:
Results of impact test for sample A were 18ft lb, 8ft lb, 16ft lb.
Results on sample ‘B’: 12ft lb, 14ft lb, 20 ft. lb
Your assessment will be:
a. sample A and B both OK

b. sample A and B both to be re-tested
c. sample B is OK, A shall be re-tested
d. sample a is OK, B shall be re-tested
18. For replacement to an existing 0.25” thick shell plate of an AST,

another plate of 0.25” thickness to ASTM A36 is used. What
should be the minimum clear distance between the outer edges
of the adjacent butt welds of vertical and horizontal joints,
respectively?
a. 10” & 6”
b. 6” & 3”
c. 8” & 4”
d. 12” & 6”
19. Repair of a 5/8” thick shell, using lapped (lap welded) patch
plate of 1/8” thick was carried out, without informing the
Owner. Such a repair is not acceptable as per API standard
653, because:
a. Owner had not specified use of patch plate repairs

b. Lap patch plate of less than 3/16” is not permitted
c. Lap patch plate repair on shell thickness more than
above ½” is not permitted
d. All of above
20. As per API Standard 650, the offset between vertical seams of
adjacent shells shall be a minimum distance of:
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Page 7 of 8
FINAL EXAM (OPEN)
a. 5 t, where ‘t’ is the plate thickness of thicker shell course

at the offset
b. 4t, where ‘t’ is the plate thickness of thicker shell course at
the offset
c. 3 t, where ‘t’ is the plate thickness of thicker shell course
at the offset
d. 2 t, where ‘t’ is the plate thickness of thicker shell course
at the offset
21. When butt welded annular bottom plates are used, in an AST
built to API Standard 650, their width from inside of the shell
shall be at least:
a. 900 mm
b. 300 mm
c. 600 mm
22. Misalignment in a completed 20 mm thick vertical seam of an

AST built to API Standard 650 shall be more than:
a. 2 mm
b. 1.5 mm
c. 0.8 mm
d. 3 mm
23. Out of roundness measured as deviation from radius

measured 1 foot above the bottom corner weld of a 150 ft
diameter AST built to API Standard 650, shall not exceed:
a. 1” (25 mm)
b. ½ “ (12.7 mm)
c. ¾” (19 mm)
d. 1-1/4” (32 mm)
24. Local deviations from theoretical shape of an aboveground
storage tank (AST), built to API Standard 650, specifically
“Peaking” at vertical joints or “Banding” at horizontal weld
joints as measured over an appropriate sweepboard of 36” shall
not exceed:
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Page 8 of 8
FINAL EXAM (OPEN)
a. 19 mm (3/4”)
b. 13 mm (1/2”)
c. 16 mm (5/8”)
d. 1/8 mm (3”)
25. An AST has remaining corrosion allowance of 3.2 mm. The

known rate of corrosion of shell is 200 microns per year. As per
API Standard 653, when should the external visual inspection
by an Authorized Inspector shall be carried out at an interval
not exceeding:
a. 5 years
b. 8 years
c. 4 years
d. 15 years
---------------------------------End----------------------------------
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Page 1 of 1
FINAL EXAM (OPEN)

Answer Key

1 B API 650, 3.4.1
2 A API 653, 12.2.1.2
3 C ASME Sec. V, Table T - 672
4 B ASME Sec. V, Table T - 276
5 D ASME Sec. V, Table T - 276
6 D ASME Sec. V, Table T - 672
7 D ASME Sec. V, T-676.1
8 C ASME Sec. IX, Table QW – 422, QW - 432
9 D ASME Sec. V, T – 773.3
10 C API 650, 3.6.1.1
11 B API 653, 4.3.2.1 (b)
12 D API 653, 4.2.1.2
13 D API 653, 9.14.1.1 (b)
14 B API 653, 9.2.1
15 B API 653, 6.3.3.2 (b)
16 B API 653, 4.3.2.2 (b)
17 C API 650, Table 2-4, and 2.2.8.3
18 B API 653, Fig. 9-1
19 D API 653, 9.3.1, 9.3.1.3
20 A API 650, 3.1.5.2 (b)
21 C API 650, 3.1.5.4
22 A API 650, 5.2.3.1
23 A API 650, 5.5.3
24 B API 650, 5.5.4
25 C API 653, 6.3.2.1
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API 653 Integrated Training

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Professional Training and Consultation

API 653 Preparatory

3. Salient Features of the Examination

4. How to Prepare for the Examination

5. Tips for Maximizing the Score

6. Time Management During the Examination

As per the present scheme, API 653 examination is one-

There are a total of 150 questions carrying 1 mark each

Each question is multiple choice questions with given 4

Please note the following:

 Fill only one circle out of four given

During the “open-book” session, you are permitted to

 2 Nos. B or 2B pencils and eraser

Be present in the exam hall at least 15 minutes prior to

Good luck, friends!

As per the Effectivity Sheet, there are total 7 codes prescribed

3. SALIENT FEATURES OF THE EXAMINATION

As stated earlier, the examination comprises of open book and

Whenever you find a very definitive or quantitative statement in

Where the student is required to refer to the diagrams or

The questions asked in closed book part are straight forward

4. HOW TO PREPARE FOR EXAM:

If your aim is only to get “certified”, i.e., to obtain just around

If your objective is to get certified and also to obtain a good

5. TIPS FOR MAXIMIZING THE SCORE

Remember the “10 Tips” covered during the preparatory

a. There are only 5 or 6 important definitions from

b. From Chapter 4 of API 653, nearly 15 questions

c. Chapter 5, knowing figure 5-2 and only 3

d. From Chapter 6, about 10 questions are asked.

e. From Chapter 7 and Chapter 8, generally 2 or 3

f. Chapter 9, about 7 to 8 questions are asked.

g. Chapter 10, about 3 or 4 questions are asked

h. Chapter 11, it is hardly 8 to 10 lines chapter but

i. Chapter 12, about 7 to 8 questions are asked.

j. Chapter 13, generally 1 question covering

k. Appendices: App. A. Here note that API 650

App. B: The important topics are number of

App. C: This being item wise inspection

App. D: Note certification requirement (Clauses

l. From API 650. Normally, two questions are

asked on Chapter 3 concerning shell, bottom

m. Since there is no negative marking, there is no

6. TIME MANAGEMENT DURING EXAM:

Both “open” and “closed” book sessions are 4 hours each.

a) You may start from Question No. 1 and proceed. If after

b) If, however, you are behind the required rate, start

c) Then come back to “deleted” questions and attempt

d) If there are still some questions where you have no clue

e) After completion of writing exam, if you have still time

7. TEST TAKING TIPS

● Don’t read too much into a question. Do not get too

● If two choices are very similar, the answer is probably not

● If two choices are opposite, one of then is probably

● Don’t go against your first impulse unless you are very

● The answer is usually wrong if it contains “all,” “always,”

● The answer has a great chance of being right if it has

● If you are supposed to read a long passage and then answer

● Be suspicious of choices that seem obvious.

● Don’t give up on a question that, after one reading,

API 653 Preparatory

BENCH MARK QUIZ

1. Open-top type tanks (with floating roof) are typically

2. The term “Critical Zone” in storage tanks refers to: