API 620 or API 650? Which is the Better Storage Tank?

API 620 or API 650? Which is the Better Storage Tank?

Storage tanksIf you own a business that deals with oil and chemicals, you may need a storage tank that will supply your needs and adhere to the standards of the government. Upon choosing, you will come across various kinds set by the American Petroleum Industry (API). Two of the most common are the API 620 and API 650. Here’s what you need to know about them.

The Use

Now you ask: What are these storage tanks for? What are their primary purposes? Simply, the API 620 regulates the design and manufacture of large steel low-pressure tanks while the API 650 are ideal for carbon, stainless steel and aluminium tanks found in terminals, pipelines, and other process facilities. Your model choice, however, will depend on other particular needs.

The Design

The API 620 constitutes a single, vertical, centered axis of revolution, which entails a material thickness of 3/16 inches. Typically, this kind of storage tank comprises of various materials such as carbon steel, austenitic stainless steel, and nickel alloys all constructed in low temperature. Its design requires an elevated or flat bottom for storage.

The API 650, just like the API 620, requires a minimum material thickness of 3/16 inches. Regarding construction, the API 650 design constitutes of carbon steel, austenitic duplex stainless steel, and aluminium materials. It comes in cylindrical forms and different capacities and sizes.

The Benefits

Unlike other storage tanks, the API 620 can store contents at a higher pressure (maximum 15 pounds per square inch of gas or vapor storage) and lower temperatures of -325 to -250 degrees Fahrenheit. It can store any liquid that has high internal pressures such as liquefied natural gas.

Apart from storing some of the most common liquids in the industry (oil, gas, chemical, water, and biofuel), the API 650 can store contents at a lower pressure (maximum of 2 ½ PSI) but at a higher temperature of -40 degrees to -50 degrees Fahrenheit. These specifications can match any tank size.

When choosing a storage tank, make sure that it suits your needs and specifications as to prevent spillage and other hazards in the workplace. Make sure to work with a professional tanker when doing so.

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