Storage Tank Sizing

Procedure
S A Z E H
C O N S U L T A N T S
Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 1 of 55

Document No.: PCD-FS-113 Rev.: 1
Rev. Revised Page Nos.

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0 Generally Revised
1 Generally Revised
File Ref. : \\10.10.1.101\qms-dms\Company Procedure\ED\ED MASTER\EDP MASTER\FS MASTER\PCD-FS-113-REV-1\PCD-FS-113-Rev1 (Storage Tank Sizing).doc
Distribution
Managing Director
Deputy Managing Director(s)
Management Representative
Relevant Division Director(s)
QM Coordinators
Relevant Quality Manager(s)
H.Kalatjari
1 11.04.2005 Issued for Implementation P.Khomarloo S.Hosseini M.Tavassoli
A.Heydari
0 21.07.2002 Issued for Implementation H.Kalatjari S.Hosseini M.Tavassoli K.Payvar
A 06.07.2002 Issued for approval H.Kalatjari S.Hosseini M.Tavassoli -
Rev. Date Description Prepared Checked Approved Authorized
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Procedure
S A Z E H

Table of Contents:
1. Purpose .................................................................................................................4
2. Applicable Documents ...........................................................................................4
3. Definition................................................................................................................4
4. Overview................................................................................................................5
4.1. Introduction .................................................................................................................... 5
4.2. Selection and Types of Storage Tanks .......................................................................... 7
4.2.1. Introduction ............................................................................................................. 7
4.2.2. Atmospheric and Low Pressure Tanks ................................................................... 7
4.2.3. Medium Pressure Tank......................................................................................... 15
4.2.4. Selection of Vertical Tanks ................................................................................... 16
4.3. Dimensions of Storage Tanks...................................................................................... 16

4.3.1. Volume.................................................................................................................. 16
4.3.2. Diameter and Height............................................................................................. 17
4.4. Safety of Storage Tanks .............................................................................................. 17
4.4.1. Water Spraying ..................................................................................................... 18
4.4.2. Fire Extinguishers ................................................................................................. 18
4.4.3. Overpressure Protection....................................................................................... 19
4.4.4. Environmental requirement................................................................................... 27
4.4.5. Boil-off in refrigerated tank.................................................................................... 28
4.4.6. Precautions against Static Electricity.................................................................... 29
4.5. Foundation and Structure of Storage Tanks ................................................................ 29
4.5.1. Foundation............................................................................................................ 29
4.5.2. Structure ............................................................................................................... 30
4.6. Material of Tanks ......................................................................................................... 33
4.6.1. Provisions for Internal Corrosion .......................................................................... 33
4.7. Installation and Operation ............................................................................................ 34
4.7.1. Aboveground Tanks.............................................................................................. 34
4.7.2. Tank Spacing and Grouping ................................................................................. 34
4.8. Corrosion, Leaks and Spills ......................................................................................... 35
4.9. Design Considerations................................................................................................. 35
4.9.1. Storage vessels .................................................................................................... 35
4.9.2. Refrigeration system............................................................................................. 36
4.10. Shell Fitting .................................................................................................................. 38
4.10.1. General ............................................................................................................. 38
4.10.2. Tank Nozzle Sizes ............................................................................................ 38
4.10.3. Fixed Roof Fittings ............................................................................................ 40
4.10.4. Floating Roof Fittings ........................................................................................ 41
4.11. Dikes ............................................................................................................................ 41
4.11.1. Dike for Atmospheric above-ground Storage Tank ........................................... 41
4.11.2. Dike for Low-pressure Storage Tank ................................................................ 43
5. General Requirements.........................................................................................43
6. Sizing and Design Procedure ..............................................................................44
Procedure
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6.1. Tank Height Calculation............................................................................................... 44

6.1.1. Fixed roof.............................................................................................................. 44
6.1.2. Floating Roof ........................................................................................................ 45
6.2. Nominal capacity of the tank........................................................................................ 46
6.3. Diameter and height of the tank................................................................................... 46
6.4. Low Liquid Level (LLL) in the tank ............................................................................... 47
6.4.1. Fixed Roof ............................................................................................................ 47
6.4.2. Floating Roof ........................................................................................................ 47
6.5. High liquid level in the tank .......................................................................................... 47
6.5.1. Fixed Roof ............................................................................................................ 47
6.5.2. Floating Roof ........................................................................................................ 47
6.6. Overflow Liquid Line Sizing.......................................................................................... 48
6.6.1. English Unit........................................................................................................... 48
6.6.2. SI Unit ................................................................................................................... 48
6.7. Pressure Vacuum safety Valve, PVSV, Sizing ............................................................ 49
6.7.1. Pressure Relief Capacity ...................................................................................... 49

6.7.2. Example—Flow Capacity Calculation................................................................... 50
6.7.3. Vacuum Relief Capacity ....................................................................................... 51
6.7.4. Example—Flow Capacity Calculation................................................................... 52
6.8. Process Control and Instrumentation........................................................................... 52
6.8.1. Control Devices .................................................................................................... 52
6.8.2. Safety Devices...................................................................................................... 54
7. Attachments.........................................................................................................54
7.1. Attachment#1: Nominal capacities of standard vertical cylindrical tanks ..................... 54
Procedure
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1. Purpose
At the entrance of a plant, storage tanks may be located to receive the raw materials
required for processing.
Within the plant, the oil & gas undergo several processes through equipments, which are
situated in different units. Because the stream of gas and oil has to go through all these
equipments and the capacity of them can never be adjusted exactly to the instantaneous
fluid flow, tanks are necessary as a kind of store between the various processes.
Also the finished products should be stored in storage tanks before distribution. The
purpose of this document is to present a procedure for sizing the Storage Tanks to be used
by Process Departments. Sizing and specification of refrigerated storage tank is not covered
by this procedure.
2. Applicable Documents
• P&ID
• PFD
• Data Sheet
• Calculation Notes
• Job Assignment
3. Definition
• Class IA liquids: those liquids that have flash point below 73 ºF and boiling point
below 100 º F.
• Class IB liquids: those liquids that have flash points below 73 ºF and boiling point at
or above 100 º F.
• Class IC Liquids: liquids that have flash points at or above 73 ºF, but below 100 ºF.
• Class II liquids: Any liquid that has a flash point at or above 100ºF and below 140 ºF.
• Class IIIA liquids: Any Liquid that has a flash point at or above 140°F and below 200 ºF.
• Class IIIB liquids: Any Liquid that has a flash point of or above 200 ºF.
• H1: Tank dead height
• h : minimum height between axis of the outlet line and tank floor, inch
• d : outlet line diameter (connection to the pump suction), inch
• H2: height between top part of the tank and bottom part of over flow line.
• d2 : Over flow line diameter
• B: Nominal capacity of the tank, Cubic meter
Procedure
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• D: Diameter of the tank, m

• A: Net capacity of the tank, Cubic meter
• C: liquid volume pumped out of the tank in 3 minute
• Q: Outlet pump flow rate, Cubic meter per hour
• h“ :liquid height above LLLL in 3-minute suction, m
• t: time (min)
4. Overview
4.1. Introduction
Storage tanks are classified in different way; there is a choice of different type of storage
tanks, depending on the nature of the product to be stored (Atmospheric- low pressure-
medium pressure), operating temperature (ambient – low temperature – double wall) and
type of construction (above ground – underground).
Based on range of operating pressure tanks are categorized as “low pressure” and
“medium pressure” types. The most important factor which is considered in selecting this
type is vapor pressure created by the product at the ambient temperature.
Figure 1: Low Pressure Storage Tank
Procedure
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Figure 2: Medium Pressure Storage Tanks
Procedure
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4.2. Selection and Types of Storage Tanks
4.2.1. Introduction
The requirements of this Section apply to the storage of crude oil, refinery and
petrochemical products in vertical cylindrical tanks and to storage tanks constructed of
carbon steel, carbon manganese steel, tanks constructed of carbon and alloy steels or
tanks constructed of non-ferrous materials.
Crude oil and the refinery products should normally be stored as follows:
• Lighter refinery products with RVP 79.3 kPa (abs.) should be stored in
pressure vessels (e.g., spheres).
• Aviation fuels shall be stored in a covered floating roof inside a fixed roof tank.
• Crude oil, naphtha and kerosene and other hydrocarbons with closed flash
points at or below 65°C, [except the cases covered in (a) and (b) above] should
be stored in tanks fitted with floating roofs.
• Gas oils, diesel oils, lubricating oils, fuel oils and residues (with closed flash
points above 65°C) should be stored in tanks fitted with non-pressure fixed
roof.
• Exceptions to the above may occur, as for example with the storage of feed
stock for catalytic Units where, to prevent oxidation and ingress of moisture,
the feed stock may be stored in a fixed roof vertical cylindrical low pressure (21
mbar and/or 2.1 kPa) tank under a gas blanket. Alternatively, a covered
floating roof may be used in a fixed roof tank and in this case a non-pressure
tank may be used.
• Exceptions may also occur where adverse climatic conditions such as heavy
snowfalls, preclude the use of floating roof type tanks. Fixed roof low pressure
tanks (21 mbar and/or 2.1 kPa approximately), should be used in such cases.
4.2.2. Atmospheric and Low Pressure Tanks

Six basic tank designs are used for liquid storage vessels: fixed roof (vertical and
horizontal), external floating roof, domed external (or covered) floating roof, internal
floating roof, variable vapor space, and pressure (low and high). A brief description of
each tank is provided below.
In low-pressure tanks, working losses can occur with atmospheric venting of the tank
during filling operations.
4.2.2.1. Fixed Roof

Fixed roof tank in comparison to open top tank which we used mainly in water and waste
water treatment plant provides containment of product vapors and reduces the potential
for fire. But it still exposes the liquid surface to the tank vapor space, producing
significant product evaporative losses. This increases the possibility of forming a
combustible gas mixture in the vapor space for other, more volatile petroleum products.
Procedure
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With regard to emission control, fixed roof tanks without vapor recovery facilities are
restricted to materials having a True Vapor Pressure (TVP) of less than 1.5 psia at the
tank operating temperature.
The roof plates and its structures (rafters & girders) might be either supported by
columns, which are welded to the bottom of the tank (Cone Roof Tanks) or self
supported, connected to the shell only (Dome Roof Tanks).
Application of this type of tank is to store “the non-volatile products such as gas oil,
lubricating oils, asphalt and fuel oil.
A typical vertical fixed roof tank is shown in Figure 3. This type of tank consists of a
cylindrical steel shell with a permanently a fixed roof, which may vary in design from
cone- or dome shaped to flat and each type can be further sub-divided into non-
pressure, low-pressure and high-pressure fixed roof tanks.
• Non-pressure fixed roof tanks are suitable for storage at atmospheric pressure and
are therefore provided with open vents.

• Low-pressure fixed roof tanks are designed to work at a low internal pressure or
vacuum. They are provided with pressure/vacuum breather valves set to be fully
open at the design pressures.
• High-pressure fixed roof tanks are designed to work at higher internal pressure or
vacuum and are also fitted with pressure/vacuum breather valves set to be fully
open at the design pressures. This tank type shall fulfill additional requirements to
ensure its stability.
The assessed maximum design conditions and the standard diameters available for
each type are as below tables (Table1 & Table 2).
Atmospheric tanks shall not be used for the storage of a liquid at a temperature at or
above its boiling point.
Losses from fixed roof tanks are caused by changes in temperature, pressure, and liquid
level. Fixed roof tanks are either freely vented or equipped with a pressure/vacuum vent.
The latter allows the tanks to operate at a slight internal pressure or vacuum to prevent
the release of vapors during very small changes in temperature, pressure, or liquid level.
Of current tank designs, the fixed roof tank is the least expensive to construct and is
generally considered the minimum acceptable equipment for storing organic liquids.
Table-1: Maximum design condition for Cone roof tanks
Procedure
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Table-2: Maximum design condition for Dome roof tanks
Horizontal fixed roof tanks are constructed for both above-ground and underground
service and are usually constructed of steel, steel with a fiberglass overlay, or fiberglass-
reinforced polyester.
Horizontal tanks are generally small storage tanks with capacities of less than 40,000
gallons.
Horizontal tanks are constructed such that the length of the tank is not greater than six
times the diameter to ensure structural integrity. Horizontal tanks are usually equipped
with pressure-vacuum vents, gauge hatches and sample wells, and manholes to provide
access to these tanks.
In addition, underground tanks may be cathodically protected to prevent corrosion of the
tank shell. Cathodic protection is accomplished by placing sacrificial anodes in the tank
that are connected to an impressed current system or by using galvanic anodes in the
tank. However, internal cathodic protection against corrosion is no longer widely used in
the petroleum industry, due to corrosion inhibitors that are now found in most refined
petroleum products.
The potential emission sources for above-ground horizontal tanks are the same as those
for vertical fixed roof tanks. Emissions from underground storage tanks are associated
mainly with changes in the liquid level in the tank. Losses due to changes in temperature
or barometric pressure are minimal for underground tanks because the surrounding
earth limits the diurnal temperature change, and changes in the barometric pressure
result in only small losses.
Procedure
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Figure 3: Typical Fixed Roof Tank
Floating Roof
In this type, the roof is not fixed to the shell, but “floats” on the liquid so there will be no
vapor space.
Because the floating roof rests directly on the liquid surface, it significantly diminishes
stock evaporative loses and reduces the hazards associated with having a large,
possibly combustible tank vapor space, such as occur in a fixed roof type.
Floating roof tanks are utilized when TVP of stored liquid at operating temperate is less
than 11.1 psia. For TVP higher than 11.1 psia using medium pressure storage tank or
vapor recovery system is mandatory.
There is a preference for floating roof over fixed roof tanks as the size of the tank
increases, as the vapor pressure of the stored liquid increases, and when the flash point
is below the storage temperature.
The rainwater is collected at the lowest point through a swivel–pipe or a hose which
passes through the product and is drained off outside.
Application of this type of tank is to store products which obtain a high electric charge
due to friction, light products, kerosene and crude oil.
4.2.2.2. External Floating Roof Tanks

This type of tank is designed to work at atmospheric pressure. Although normally
recommended only for diameters of 15 m and greater, this does not exclude its use in
smaller diameters in special circumstances. The diameter of an external floating roof
tank shall at least be equal to its height to enable the use of a normal rolling ladder for
access to the roof.
Procedure
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A typical external floating roof tank (EFRT) consists of an open- topped cylindrical steel
shell equipped with a roof that floats on the surface of the stored liquid. The floating roof
consists of a deck, fittings, and rim seal system.
Floating decks that are currently in use are constructed of welded steel plate and are of
two general types: pontoon or double-deck. Pontoon-type and double-deck-type external
floating roof tanks are shown in Figures 4 and 5, respectively. With all types of external
floating roof tanks, the roof rises and falls with the liquid level in the tank. External
floating decks are equipped with a rim seal system, which is attached to the deck
perimeter and contacts the tank wall. The purpose of the floating roof and rim seal
system is to reduce evaporative loss of the stored liquid. Some annular space remains
between the seal system and the tank wall. The seal system slides against the tank wall
as the roof is raised and lowered. The floating deck is also equipped with fittings that
penetrate the deck and serve operational functions. The external floating roof design is
such that evaporative losses from the stored liquid are limited to losses from the rim seal
system and deck fittings (standing storage loss) and any exposed liquid on the tank walls
(withdrawal loss).
Figure 4: Typical External Floating roof (pontoon Type)
Procedure
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Figure 5: External Floating Roof (Double deck)
4.2.2.3. Internal Floating Roof Tanks

This type was developed in the mid 1950s to provide protection of the floating roof from
elements, including lightning strikes. The tank vapor space, which is located above the
floating roof and below the fixed roof, includes circulation vents to allow natural
ventilation, reducing the accumulation of product vapors and possible formation of a
combustible mixture.
Such tanks can be used, for example, where:
• Snow loading on a floating roof may be a problem since accumulations of snow or
water on the floating roof affect the operating buoyancy;
• Contamination by rainwater of the liquid stored in a floating roof tank is
unacceptable;
• There is an environmental or vapor loss problem with fixed roof tanks;
• Contact of the stored liquid with air should be avoided.
Internal floating roof can be installed in existing tank as well as new tanks.
An internal floating roof tank (IFRT) has both a permanent fixed roof and a floating roof
inside. There are two basic types of internal floating roof tanks: tanks in which the fixed
roof is supported by vertical columns within the tank, and tanks with a self-supporting
fixed roof and no internal support columns. Fixed roof tanks that have been retrofitted to
use a floating roof are typically of the first type. External floating roof tanks that have
been converted to internal floating roof tanks typically have a self-supporting roof. Newly
Procedure
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constructed internal floating roof tanks may be of either type. The deck in internal floating
roof tanks rises and falls with the liquid level and either floats directly on the liquid
surface (contact deck) or rests on pontoons several inches above the liquid surface
(noncontact deck). The majority of aluminum internal floating roofs currently in service
have noncontact decks.
A typical internal floating roof tank is shown in Figure 6. Contact decks can be (1)
aluminum sandwich panels that are bolted together, with a honeycomb aluminum core
floating in contact with the liquid; (2) pan steel decks floating in contact with the liquid,
with or without pontoons; and (3) resin-coated, fiberglass reinforced polyester (FRP),
buoyant panels floating in contact with the liquid. The majority of internal contact floating
decks currently in service is aluminum sandwich panel-type or pan steel-type. The FRP
decks are less common. The panels of pan steel decks are usually welded together.
Noncontact decks are the most common type currently in use. Typical noncontact decks
are constructed of an aluminum deck and an aluminum grid framework supported above
the liquid surface by tubular aluminum pontoons or some other buoyant structure. The
noncontact decks usually have bolted deck seams. Installing a floating roof minimizes
evaporative losses of the stored liquid.
Both contact and noncontact decks incorporate rim seals and deck fittings for the same
purposes previously described for external floating roof tanks. Evaporative losses from
floating roofs may come from deck fittings, nonwelded deck seams, and the annular
space between the deck and tank wall. In addition, these tanks are freely vented by
circulation vents at the top of the fixed roof. The vents minimize the possibility of organic
vapor accumulation in the tank vapor space in concentrations approaching the
flammable range. An internal floating roof tank not freely vented is considered a pressure
tank.
Procedure
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Figure 6: Internal Floating Roof Tank
4.2.2.4. Domed External Floating Roof Tanks

Domed external (or covered) floating roof tanks have the heavier type of deck used in
external floating roof tanks as well as a fixed roof at the top of the shell like internal
floating roof tanks. Domed external floating roof tanks usually result from retrofitting an
external floating roof tank with a fixed roof.
This type of tank is very similar to an internal floating roof tank with a welded deck and a
self supporting fixed roof. A typical domed external floating roof tank is shown in Figure
7. As with the internal floating roof tanks, the function of the fixed roof is not to act as a
vapor barrier, but to block the wind. The type of fixed roof most commonly used is a self
supporting aluminum dome roof, which is of bolted construction. Like the internal floating
roof tanks, these tanks are freely vented by circulation vents at the top of the fixed roof.
The deck fittings and rim seals, however, are identical to those on external floating roof
tanks. In the event that the floating deck is replaced with the lighter IFRT-type deck, the
tank would then be considered an internal floating roof tank.
Procedure
S A Z E H

Figure 7: Domed External Floating roof tank
4.2.2.5. Variable Vapor Space Tanks

Variable vapor space tanks are equipped with expandable vapor reservoirs to
accommodate vapor volume fluctuations attributable to temperature and barometric
pressure changes. Although variable vapor space tanks are sometimes used
independently, they are normally connected to the vapor spaces of one or more fixed
roof tanks. The two most common types of variable vapor space tanks are lifter roof
tanks and flexible diaphragm tanks. Lifter roof tanks have a telescoping roof that fits
loosely around the outside of the main tank wall. The space between the roof and the
wall is closed by either a wet seal, which is a thorough filled with liquid, or a dry seal,
which uses a flexible coated fabric. Flexible diaphragm tanks use flexible membranes to
provide expandable volume. They may be either separate gasholder units or integral
units mounted atop fixed roof tanks. Variable vapor space tank losses occur during tank
filling when vapor is displaced by liquid. Loss of vapor occurs only when the tank’s vapor
storage capacity is exceeded.
4.2.3. Medium Pressure Tank

Spherical shaped storage tanks are generally used for storing products with high vapor
pressure in very large capacity. Spherical storage tanks can be 10 times larger than
bullet tanks.
Bullet tank are long cylindrical (usually horizontal) pressure vessels most frequently used
for liquid petroleum gas (LPG). The working pressure of these tanks can be from 1 to 70
Procedure
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barg or greater. These tanks often have hemispherical head. Most of bullet tanks have
capacities of less than 320 m3. The maximum size of this type is about 4 m diameter and
50 m length. High pressure material such as propane and ammonia can be stored in
them at ambient temperature.
Domed, hemispheroid and spheroid are rarely used in petroleum and petrochemical
industries.
Sizing and specification of spherical storage tanks are not included in this procedure and
is under preparation.
4.2.4. Selection of Vertical Tanks

The table below shows the types and ranges of tanks recommended for storage of
different classes of petroleum products. Although they are not dealt with in this
specification, factors such as evaporation losses, pumping losses, climatic conditions, air
pollution, soil conditions and local regulations shall also be taken into consideration when
selecting the most suitable type(s) and size(s).
Table 3: Selection of vertical tanks

Tanks up to 39 m , storing certain class I and II products, may be connected to a vapor
recovery system, or a fixed roof with floating cover may be used where rain water
penetrating between shell and seal may have an adverse effect on the quality of the
product stored.
4.3. Dimensions of Storage Tanks
4.3.1. Volume
Each tank should have the proper capacity, height and diameter. A tank that is too large
is unnecessarily expensive. A tank that is too small often does not satisfy the
requirements and raises some problems during the operation.
Procedure
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If the required storage volume is larger than the volume of one tank, two or more tanks
will be installed near each other. Sometimes it is better, for instance to have two small
tanks instead of a large one.
The purchase price of a large tank, for example 500m3 is cheaper than two tanks of
250m3 each. However, it may be desirable to use these two small tanks in connection
with repairs and maintenance.
More tanks certainly require more pipelines, valves etc., but the total volume can easily
be adjusted to changing production capacity.
4.3.2. Diameter and Height

In Figure 8, two tanks are shown with the same volume and filled with the same amount
of product. Which is preferred?
Tank A has a small diameter and so takes less site space. The pressure on each square
meter of ground is however high, because the total weight is distributed over a small
base area. This tank can only stand on ground, which can withstand a great pressure.
Tank B, with a greater diameter, has a low soil pressure and is able to stand on poor soil.
This tank however needs a very large site area.
Therefore it is necessary to know the dimensions of the available building area and the
type of soil, for instance sand, clay, rock and so on.
If the area of tank A is a quarter of the area of tank B, the ground pressure of tank A is 4
times greater than the ground pressure of tank B.
Figure 8: Two tanks with same volume and different dimensions, which is preferred?
4.4. Safety of Storage Tanks

Extensive provisions are required to be able to work safely and to prevent catastrophes
such as fire. Considering the inflammable and sometimes explosive contents of the tanks
and the large quantities involved, it is clear that safety plays an important role in operation.
Procedure
S A Z E H

4.4.1. Water Spraying

What will be done if fire breaks out? Water will be sprayed on it. Water is by far the
cheapest means of extinguishing fire. Water has two effects on fire:
• It cools the material down, so a fire in the neighborhood cannot heat it.
• It extinguishes (usually) an existing fire. Burning hydrocarbons cannot however
be extinguished by water.
When a tank or other equipment is on fire, the nearest tanks have to be cooled down by
spraying them with water and kept them wet. Normally it is achieved by coiled rings,
which are installed around the tanks.
4.4.2. Fire Extinguishers

Burning product in a tank with a fixed cone – roof can be extinguished in two ways:
By Air Foam (Figure 9)

This is foam – making compound and additives, which is mixed with water in certain
proportions after which air is added.
In this way heat resistant tough foam is formed, a considerable layer of which is sprayed
onto the burning surface to cut off the oxygen supply.
In case of fire in a tank the delivery line is pressurized by the fire engine. Air is sucked
into the foam channel and here the foam is produced.
Figure 9: Fire extinguishing by air foam
By Fire – Fighting Powder (Figure 10)

Tanks containing certain solvents, on which foam is less effective, are protected by fixed
powder connections combined with the water–cooling of the tank wall. Powder can be
blown into the tank from a fire engine situated behind the fire – screen near the road.
Procedure
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Figure 10: Fire extinguishing by powder
4.4.3. Overpressure Protection

When the possible causes of overpressure or vacuum in a tank are being determined, the
following circumstances must be considered:
• Liquid movement into or out of the tank

• Tank breathing due to normal atmospheric pressure or temperature changes
• Fire exposure
• Other circumstances resulting from equipment and control system failures and
operating errors
4.4.3.1. Aboveground Tanks
Normal Venting
Atmospheric Storage tanks shall be adequately vented to prevent the development of
vacuum or pressure that can distort the roof of a cone roof tank or that exceeds the
design pressure of other atmospheric tanks when filling or emptying the tank because of
atmospheric temperature changes.
Normal vents shall be sized in accordance with API Standard No. 2000, Venting
Atmospheric and Low-Pressure Storage Tanks, or another accepted standard.
The total venting capacity shall be at least the sum of the venting requirements for liquid
movement and thermal effect as described hereunder:
Inbreathing (vacuum relief) capacity is equal to 5.6 SCFH (Standard Cubic Feet per
Hour) per 0.159 m3/hr of maximum pump out (emptying) rate + thermal inbreathing (from
Table 4).
Outbreathing (Pressure relief) capacity for liquid with flash point of 100 °F or above or
normal boiling point of 300°F or above is equal to 6 SCFH per 0.159 m3/hr of maximum
pump in (filling) rate+ thermal outbreathing (from Table 4).
Outbreathing (Pressure relief) capacity for liquid with flash point below 100 °F or normal
boiling point below 300°F is equal to 12 SCFH per 0.159 m3/hr of maximum pump in
(filling) rate+ thermal outbreathing (from Table 4).
Procedure
S A Z E H

Table 4: Thermal inbreathing for tank capacity between 60 to 18000 bbl

Thermal Thermal Outbreathing (SCFH)
Inbreathing(SCFH)
Tank Capacity Any flash point Flash point ≥ Flash point < 100°F
(bbl) 100°F
or or
or
NBP(Normal Boiling Point) NBP < 300 °F
NBP ≥ 300 °F
60 60 40 60
100 100 60 100
500 500 300 500
1000 1000 600 1000

2000 2000 1200 2000
5000 5000 3000 5000
10000 10000 6000 10000
20000 20000 12000 20000
25000 24000 15000 24000
40000 34000 21000 34000
60000 44000 27000 44000
80000 52000 31000 52000
100000 60000 36000 60000
120000 68000 41000 68000
140000 75000 45000 75000
160000 82000 50000 82000
180000 90000 54000 90000
Normal Venting Devices

1-Pressure vacuum relief valve are recommended for use on atmospheric spherical storage tank
containing liquid with flashpoint less than 100 °F or operating temperature higher than flash point
2-Open vent with flame arresting device may be used in place of pressure vacuum relief valve for
liquid at above mentioned condition. Open vent without flame arrester may be used for:
Tanks storing liquid with flash point ≥ 100 °F
Heated tanks storing liquid at operating temperature below flash point
Tanks with capacity of less than 59.5 bbl used for storing any product
Tanks with capacity of less than 3000 bbl used for storing crude oil
Procedure
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Normal Venting Detail Design
Atmospheric storage tanks shall be adequately vented to prevent the development of

vacuum or pressure sufficient to distort the roof of a cone roof tank or exceeding the
design pressure in the case of other atmospheric tanks, as a result of filling or emptying,
and atmospheric temperature changes.
Normal vents shall be sized at least as large as the filling or withdrawal connection,
which ever is larger, but in no case less than 1.25 in. (3 cm) nominal inside diameter.
Protection shall also be provided to prevent over pressure from any pump discharging
into the tank when the pump discharge pressure can exceed the design pressure of tank
or vessel.
If any tank or pressure vessel has more than one fill or withdrawal connection and
simultaneous filling or withdrawal can be made, the vent size shall be based on the
maximum anticipated simultaneous flow.
The outlet of all vents and drains on tanks equipped with venting to permit pressure
exceeding 2.5 psig shall be arranged to discharge in such a way as to prevent localized
overheating of or flame impingement on, any part of the tank, in the vent vapors from
such vents are ignited.
Tanks and pressure vessel storing class IA liquids shall be equipped with venting
devices that shall be normally closed except when venting to pressure or vacuum
conditions. Tanks and pressure vessels storing class IB and IC liquids shall be equipped
with venting devices that shall be normally closed except when venting under pressure
or vacuum conditions. Also listed flame Arrestors tanks of 3000 bbl (476910 Liter)
capacity or less containing crude petroleum in crude producing areas, and outside
aboveground atmospheric tanks under 23.8 bbl (3785 Liter) capacity containing other
than class IA liquids, shall be permitted to have open vent.
Thermal Venting
Special attention is required to the influence of a sudden drop in temperature (e.g. due to
rainfall) on the venting requirements of tanks containing warm product and for tanks in
tropical areas. A drop of 20 °C or more in 15 minutes may be experienced. Where these
conditions apply the venting capacity shall be increased by at least 20% of the thermal
venting capacity requirements.
Emergency Venting
Emergency Relief Venting for Fire Exposure for Aboveground Tanks
Every aboveground storage tank shall have emergency relief venting in the form of
construction or a device that will relieve excessive internal pressure caused by an
exposure fire. This requirement shall also apply to each compartment of a
compartmented tank, the interstitial space (annulus) of a secondary containment-type
tank, and the enclosed space of tanks of closed-top dike construction.
This requirement shall also apply to spaces or enclosed volumes, such as those
intended for insulation, membranes, or weather shields that can contain liquid because
of a leak from the primary vessel and can inhibit venting during fire exposure. The
insulation, membrane, or weather shield shall not interfere with emergency venting.
Procedure
S A Z E H

Method1 : When a tank is subjected to fire exposure, the required vent capacity shall be
determined by the following formula:
0.5
QF ⎛ T ⎞
SCFH = 3.091 ⎜ ⎟ (Eq.1)
λ ⎝ MW ⎠
Where:
SCFH: Venting requirement, in Standard Cubic feet air per hour

Q: heat input from fire exposure, in BTU/hr as per Table 5
F: environmental Factor from Table 6
λ: latent heat of vaporization of stored liquid at relieving pressure and
temperature in BTU/lb
T: Temperature of relieving vapor, in degrees Rankine. It is normally assumed that
the temperature of the relieving vapor corresponds to the boiling point of the
stored fluid at the relieving pressure.

MW: molecular weight of vapor
A: wetted surface area of the tank in ft2
Table 5: heat input from external fire for various type of tanks
wetted surface Design Q (Heat Input)

area (ft2) Pressure
(Btu/hr)
(psig)
A < 200 All 20,000 A
200 < A < 1000 All 199,300 A0.566
1000 < A < 2800 All 963,400 A0.338
A > 2800 >1 21,000 A0.82
A > 2800 ≤1 14,090,000
Procedure
S A Z E H

Table 6: Environmental Factor for Non-refrigerated aboveground tanks

Data F factor
Bare Tank 1.0
Insulated tank with insulation conductance of :
4.0 Btu/hr ft2 °F 0.3
2.0 Btu/hr ft2 °F 0.15
1.0 Btu/hr ft2 °F 0.075
0.67 Btu/hr ft2 °F 0.05
0.5 Btu/hr ft2 °F 0.0375
0.4 Btu/hr ft2 °F 0.03
0.33 Btu/hr ft2 °F 0.025

Water application facilities 1.0
Depressuring and emptying facilities 1.0
Underground storage 0.0
Earth covered storage above grade 0.03
Impoundment away from tank 0.5
Method 2: when a lesser degree of accuracy can be tolerated, the required vent
capacity can be determined form Table 7.
Table 7: Summary of Vent capacity calculation
wetted Design Required Vent Capacity
surface area Pressure
(SCFH)
(ft2)
(psig)
A < 2800 All Refer to Table 8 (Note1)
A > 2800 >1 CFH = 1107 A 0.82 (Eq.2)
(Note 2)
A > 2800 ≤1 742000 (Note 1)
Note-1: The required air flow rate shall be permitted to be multiplied by the
Environmental Factor listed in Table 6.
Note-2: Where:
CFH: Venting requirement, in Cubic feet air per hour
A: exposed wetted surface, in Square feet
The foregoing formula is based on Q= 21000 A 0.82 (refer to Table 5) (Eq.3)
Procedure
S A Z E H

Table 8: Wetted Area versus Required Vent Capacity

Required Required
Wetted Wetted
Vent Capacity Vent Capacity
Area (ft3) Area (ft3)
(SCFH) (SCFH)
20 21,100 300 265,000
30 31,600 350 288,000
40 42,100 400 312,000
50 52,100 500 354,000
60 63,200 600 392,000
70 73,700 700 428,000
80 84,200 800 462,000

90 94,800 900 493,000
100 105,000 1000 524,000
120 126,000 1200 557,000
140 147,000 1400 587,000
160 168,000 1600 614,000
180 190,000 1800 639,000
200 211,000 2000 662,000
200 211,000 2400 704,000
250 239,000 2800 742,000
Flow capacity of tank venting devices
A suitable formula for this calculation is:

SCFH= 1667 CF A Pf − Pa (Eq.4)
Where
CF: 0.5 (the flow Coefficient)
A: the orifice Area, in
Pf: the absolute Pressure inside the tank, inches of water
Pa: the absolute atmospheric pressure outside the tank, inches of water
SCFH: venting requirement in the standard cubic feet of free air per hour
Emergency Venting Devices

Emergency vent may be accomplished by the use of the following:
• Larger pressure vacuum relief valves
• Larger open vent
• A gauge hatch that permits the cover to lift under abnormal heat input
Procedure
S A Z E H

• A manhole cover that lifts when exposed to abnormal internal pressure

• A connection between the roof and shell that is weaker than the weakest vertical joint
in the shell or the shell-to-bottom connection. However additional emergency vents
may be used to avoid failure of the tank roof.
• Rupture disk device
Emergency Venting Detail Design
• Tanks larger than 285 bbl (45306 L) capacity storing class IIIB liquids and not within
the dike area or the drainage path of class I or class II liquids shall not require
emergency Relief venting.
• In a vertical tank, it may be permitted to take the form of a floating roof, lifter Roof, a
weak roof-to-shell seam, or other approved pressure-relieving construction to relieve
any excess pressure instead of an additional emergency vent device.

• Where entire dependence for emergency relief valve is placed upon pressure relieving
devices, the total venting capacity of both normal and emergency vents shall be
enough to prevent rupture of the shell or bottom of the tank if vertical, or of the shell or
heads if horizontal.
Note: If unstable liquids are stored, the effects of heat or gas resulting from
polymerization, decomposition, condensation, or self reactivity shall be taken into
account.
The total capacity of both normal and emergency venting devices shall not be less than
that derived from table 8.
Such devices shall be vapor tight and shall be permitted to be a self – closing market
cover, or one using long bolts that permit the cover to lift under internal pressure, or an
additional or larger relief valve or valve.
• The wetted area of the tank shall be calculated on the basis of 55% of the total
exposed area of a sphere or spheroid, 75% of the total exposed area of a
horizontal tank, and the first 30 ft (9m) above grade of the exposed shell area of a
vertical tank.
• Insulation systems for which Credit is taken shall meet the following Performance
Criteria:
o Remain in place under fire exposure conditions.
o Withstand dislodgment when subjected to noise stream impingement during
fire exposure.
o Maintain a maximum conductance value of 4.0 Btu/hr.ft2/ ºF when the outer
Insulation jacket or cover is at a temperature of 1660ºF (904.4ºC) and when
the mean Temperature of the Insulation is 1000ºF (537.8ºC).
• The outlet of all vents and drains on tanks equipped with emergency venting to
permit pressure exceeding 2.5 psig shall be arranged to discharge in such a way
as to prevent Localized overheating of or flame impingement on any part of the
tank, in the event vapors from such vents are ignited.
Procedure
S A Z E H

Tank opening other than vents for aboveground tanks

• Each connection to an aboveground tank through which liquid can normally flow
shall be provided with an internal or an external valve located as close as practical
to the shell of the tank.
• Each connection below the liquid level through which liquid does not normally flow
shall be provided with a liquid tight closure.
• Opening for gagging on tanks storing class I Liquids shall be provided with a
reporting cap or cover.-
• Fill pipes that enter the top of the tank shell terminate within 6” (15 cm) of the
bottom of the tank.
• Fill pipes shall be installed or arranged so that rib ration is minimized.
4.4.3.2. Underground Tanks
Location and Arrangement of vents for class I Liquids

Vent pipes from underground storage tanks storing class I Liquids shall be located so
that the discharge point is outside of buildings higher than the fill pipe opening, and not
less than 12 ft (3.6m) above the adjacent ground level.
Vent Capacity
Vent pipes shall not be less than 1¼ in (3cm) nominal inside diameter. The required
venting capacity depends upon the filling or withdrawal rate, whichever is greater, and
the vent line length.
Unrestricted vent piping Sized in accordance with Table 9 will prevent backpressure
development in tanks from exceeding 2.5 psig.
Location and arrangement of vent for class II Liquid

Vent pipes from tank storing class II or class IIIA liquid shall terminate outside of the
building and higher than the fill pipe opening. Tank vent pipes and vapor return piping
shall be installed without sags or traps in which liquid can collect.
Vent piping for tanks storing class I liquids shall not be manifolded with vent piping for
tanks storing class III liquids unless positive means are provided to prevent the vapors
from class I Liquids from entering tanks storing class II and class III Liquids, to prevent
contamination and possible change in classification of the less volatile Liquid.
Procedure
S A Z E H

Table 9: Vent Line Diameters in underground Tanks

Maximum Pipe Length Pipe Length Pipe Length
Flow (gpm) 50ft 100 ft 200 ft
100 1¼ . in. 1¼ . in. 1¼ . in.
200 1¼ . in. 1¼ . in. 1¼ . in.
300 1¼ . in. 1¼ . in. 1½.in.
400 1¼ . in. 1¼ . in. 2.in.
500 1¼ . in. 1¼ . in. 2.in.
600 1¼ . in. 2.in. 2.in.
700 2.in. 2.in. 2.in.
800 2.in. 2.in. 2.in.

900 2.in. 2.in. 2.in.
1000 2.in. 2.in. 2.in.
4.4.4. Environmental requirement

Storage tanks are considered a source of air emissions due to losses of vapor. Emissions
from tanks must be addressed in obtaining the air permit. Volatile organic compounds
(VOCs) are the major pollutants of concern for air emissions. In addition, specific
organics that are toxic or hazardous are also regulated, e.g., benzene. Adequate control
and proper management and maintenance are necessary to prevent releases of tank
contents.
Tank venting (vent from condensate storage tanks) shall comply with the regulations of
the local environment authority.
In order to mitigation of emission to air because of venting, it is suggested selection of
floating roof storage tank and nitrogen blanketing on off-spec tank.
For more information, refer to IPS-E-PR-360 Engineering Standard for Process Design of
Liquid & Gas Transfer and Storage (This standard includes some items for pollution
mitigation during venting).
4.4.4.1. Reducing Emissions

Pollution prevention opportunities for tank storage of volatile organic liquids include the
following categories:
• Source reduction of breathing losses
• Source reduction of working losses
• Other source reduction approaches
Procedure
S A Z E H

Source Reduction of Breathing Losses

Breathing loss is the expulsion of vapor from a tank vapor space that has been
expanded due to daily changes in temperature and barometric pressure. Source
reduction steps may reduce breathing losses between 10 percent and 95 percent. These
steps may be considered even when an end-of pipe treatment device will be installed, to
help reduce the size and or cost of the treatment unit.
Reduce the vapor space in the tank

A large fraction of the breathing losses are caused by thermal expansion of the VOC-
laden vapor in the tank head space. Reduction of the tank head space may be
accomplished by:
1. Operating at a constant level (fill rate = withdrawal rate).
2. Use a variable vapor space tank.
3. Operate 5 tanks completely full rather than 10 tanks half full.

4. Others (bladders, floating balls, etc)
Addition of inert gasses

Eliminate, whenever possible, continuous nitrogen addition for padding. Consider a
design based on pressure control rather than flow control. If continuous addition is
necessary, use a rotameter or other flow control device.
Keep the tank at constant temperature

Options include painting the tank white to reflect more sunlight, insulating the tank to
reduce heat transfer between the tank contents and the surrounding air, and operating
the tank at a constant temperature with supplemental cooling and or heating. The
heating/cooling option, in particular, would need an economic feasibility evaluation.
Raise the vent temperature

Examine the possibility of raising the pressure at which the conservation vent opens, to
reduce emissions caused by thermal expansion of the tank vapor space. However, do
not exceed the tank design pressure. Tanks which operate at 2 ½ psig or higher will
often have little or no breathing loss.
4.4.5. Boil-off in refrigerated tank
Defining Boil-Off
Even with insulation, heat is transferred to the fluid in the tank from the environment.
This heat, combined with the low heat of vaporization of fluid, causes vapor to form.
Insulation is designed to keep boil-off to a benchmark of less than 0.04% by weight of
the tank's content. Tests are conducted to monitor performance against this objective.
Procedure
S A Z E H

Boil-Off (%) = (Vapors Generated in 24 hours [weight]) / (Capacity of the tank [weight]) x
100
Measuring Boil-Off
Before measuring boil-off, it's necessary to properly isolate the tank. No liquid or vapor
should be transferred to the tank. Boil-off vapors should be captured in a separate tank
after the refrigeration unit. Breather valves and flare lines should be closed.
4.4.6. Precautions against Static Electricity

When liquid product is pumped into a tank, it is possible that the friction between the
liquid particles or between the particles and the pipe wall produce an electric charge.
This is particularly the case when the liquid plunges straight from the top into the tank. A
sudden discharge is most dangerous. It has the same effect as a spark plug in a car
engine. Of course sparks in a space filled with inflammable and explosive materials are
very dangerous.
Care should be taken to prevent build up of electric charges in the liquid. The charge has
to be diverted via tank wall and earth before it becomes too high. (See Figure 11)
Figure 11: Tank protection against Static Electricity

A flexible cable acts as the connection between the roof and the tank wall. In this way the
tanks are protected against lightening which is also a static charge.
4.5. Foundation and Structure of Storage Tanks

Storage tanks consist of two main parts, the foundation and the structure.
4.5.1. Foundation
The foundation of storage tanks is normally constructed from compacted sand & gravel,
which is covered by a layer of asphalt to resist against weather conditions. The
foundation and also the tank bottom have a slight inclination.
When the calculation shows the risk of over turning in case of an earthquake due to high
ratio of tank height over its diameter (H/D), concrete foundations should be provided
Procedure
S A Z E H

instead of compacted sand and gravel. The tank body will be anchored to the foundation
by the foundation anchor bolts.
4.5.2. Structure
The components of storage tanks are similar except for the roof (i.e. fixed roof or floating
roof) and are as below:
• Bottom
• Shell plates and top angles
• Wind girder (only for floating roofs)
• Roof plates and its structure
• Roof columns (only for fixed roofs)
• Fittings for operation (e.g. inlet/outlet, mixer, vent & drain, control instruments,
etc.)
• Firefighting devices (foam systems and water spray rings for cooling)
The mutual distance between tanks, for accessibility and safety, depends upon:
• The capacity
• The nature of the product in the tank
Therefore large tanks and those containing inflammable products are further from each
other than small tanks and those containing harmless products.
A tank or a group of tanks is erected within an earth wall (known as “dike”). This is to
prevent the product from spreading over the site, due to a fire break-out or a tank rupture.
Therefore the walls should be high enough to make sure that, in case of accident, the
contents of the tanks remain within the pound.
If a tank has to be emptied completely, for repairs or maintenance, or if water has to be
drained, this is done by means of the drain line, which leads to the drain well.
Steam heating, by means of piping laid in loops or coils, is sometimes required to heat
the tank contents, to maintain fluidity or to protect against freezing.
In order to operate efficiently it is essential that the operators should be aware of certain
important facts at all times and for all tanks:
• The liquid level
• The temperature
• The pressure
• The composition
The liquid level can be measured in two ways. The simplest method is done by means of
a slot dipping device (dip- stick) and a calibrated tape. (See Figure 12)
This slot dipping – device is fitted on gas tight tanks only and is shown in Figure 13.
Procedure
S A Z E H

The gas lock is provided with a hinged flap-valve with a counterweight and a lever.
Normally the flap- valve is closed. The gas lock is situated between the flap- valve and
the hinged hood.
To measure the level the plug is removed from the hood, the flap-valve is opened and the
dip tape measure lowered through the opening to the tank bottom. Then everything is re-
closed. Continuous reading of the liquid level operates on the well – known float system.
A simple device is shown in Figure 14.
Here a float moves up and down with the liquid level along stretched guide-wires. A cord
is attached to the float runs over two rollers and into the outside of the tank where there is
a counterweight and an indicator. This indicator moves along a scale on which the level
or actual tank contents are shown. The disadvantage of this system is that the vapor can
escape from the tank.
Each tank normally has to be provided with two independently operating level gauges.
One of which has a reading on the tank and the other gives a remote reading in the
control room.
Figure 12: Tank Level Gauge
Procedure
S A Z E H

Figure 13: Slot Dipping Device
Figure 14: Simple Liquid Level Gauge

Procedure
S A Z E H

Storage tanks are provided with an alarm installation, which gives a warning if the level
becomes too high or too low.
The temperature is read from thermometers fixed to the tank wall. The temperature can
also be found by drawing a sample of the product and measuring its temperature with a
hand thermometer.
The pressure, both over- pressure and vacuum, is, as already mentioned, an important
value and can be read from a large pressure gauge on the tank roof. This pressure
gauge should indicate both effective pressure and vacuum in meter of water.
4.6. Material of Tanks

Tanks shall be designed and built in accordance with recognized good engineering
standards for the material of construction being used and shall be of steel or approved non
combustible material, with the following limitations and exceptions:
A) The material of tank construction shall be compatible with the liquid to be stored. In
case of doubt about the properties of the liquid to be stored, the supplier, producer of
the liquid, or other competent authority shall be consulted.
B) Tanks constructed of combustible materials shall be subject to the approval of the
authority having jurisdiction and limited to:
1. Installation underground, or
2. Use where required by the properties of the liquid stored, or
3. Storage of class IIIB Liquids above grounds in areas not exposed to a spill or leak of
class I or class II liquid, or
4. Storage of class IIIB liquids inside a building protected by an approved automatic fire
extinguishing system.
C) Unlined concrete tanks shall be permitted to be used for storing Liquids having a
gravity of 40º API or heavier. Concrete tanks with special linings shall be permitted to
be used for other services provided. The design is in accordance with sound
engineering practice.
D) Tank shall be permitted to have combustible or non-combustible linings. The choice of
a suitable protective lining shall depend upon the properties of the liquid stored.
E) Special engineering consideration is required if the specific gravity of the liquid to be
stored exceeds that of water or if the tank is designed to contain liquids at a liquid
temperature below (-17.8 ºC).
4.6.1. Provisions for Internal Corrosion

Where tanks are not designed in accordance with the American petroleum Institute,
Society of mechanical engineers, or the underwriters Laboratories Inc. Standards, or if
corrosion is anticipated beyond that provided for in the design formulas used, additional
metal thickness or suitable protective coatings of linings shall be provided to compensate
for the corrosion less expected during the design life of the tank.
Procedure
S A Z E H

4.7. Installation and Operation
4.7.1. Aboveground Tanks
Installation of Outside
For installation of outside aboveground tanks and spacing (shell-to-shell) between any
two-adjustment tanks, refer to, API 650.
Control of Spillage
Facilities shall be provided so that any accidental discharge of any class I, II or III A
liquids will be prevented from endangering important facilities and adjoining property, or
reaching waterways.
Exception No. 1: Tanks storing class IIIB liquids do not requires special drainage or dike
provisions for fire protection purpose.

Exception No. 2: Above ground containment – type tanks need not meet the
requirements if all of the following conditions are met:
• The capacity of the tank shall not exceed 12000 gal. (45420 Lit.)
• All piping connections to the tank shall be made above the normal maximum liquid
level
• Means shall be provided to prevent the relate of liquid from the tank by siphoned
flow.
• Means shall be provided for determining the level of liquid in the tank. This means
shall be accessible to the delivery operator.
• Means shall be provided to prevent overfilling by sounding on alarm when the liquid
level in the tank reaches 90% of capacity and by automatically stopping delivery of
liquid to the tank when the liquid level in the tank reaches 95% of capacity.
• Spacing between adjacent shall not be less that 3ft (0.9m).
• The tank shall be capable of resisting the damage from the impact of a motor
vehicle or suitable collision Barrie shall be provided.
• Means shall be provided to establish the integrity of the secondary containment.
4.7.2. Tank Spacing and Grouping

For major storage at refineries and petrochemical works, the distance between the
boundary fence and a tank containing class IA and IB products should be 30 m (100 ft.)
and for a tank containing class IC products the distance should be 15 m (50 ft.)
It is preferred that class IC product tanks are not grouped with class IA and IB product
tanks. Each group of tanks shall be arranged so that access for fire fighting purposes
which is available from at least two sides of the group, preferably opposite sides.
Procedure
S A Z E H

In the above “Group” means any group of tanks contained within a single bund. “Access”
means that appropriate to the method of firefighting to be employed in the particular
location.
• The tank shall be completely filled with an inert solid material
• The tank vent and remaining underground piping shall be capped or removed
• The tank excavation shall be back filled.
4.8. Corrosion, Leaks and Spills

Normally storage tanks are painted outside only to resist against weather conditions.
However when the service fluid of a storage tank is corrosive, it is necessary to protect the
inside of the tank also. (Only fixed roof types)
This is achieved by sandblasting and cleaning the tank interior followed by application of
epoxy paints. After completion of operation, the finished surfaces should be tested by
“holiday detector” for any pinhole or uncovered area.
Leaks and fluid spills might happen during operation when the liquid overflows. Normally
tanks have an overflow nozzle that in such cases conducts the excess fluids to the drain
system.
4.9. Design Considerations
4.9.1. Storage vessels
Design Pressure
It is assumed that, the maximum operating pressure at the top of a vessel is equivalent
to the vapor pressure of the product being handled at the maximum temperature that the
vessel’s contents may reach under prolonged exposure of the vessel to solar radiation
"the assessed temperature".
The design pressure to be used for the top of the vessel shall be equal to the greater of:
• 110% of the maximum operating pressure;
• The maximum operating pressure plus 170 kPa (1.7 kg/cm²).
The design pressure to be used for the bottom of the vessel shall be as above for the
top of the vessel plus the static head of the content.
Design vacuum
Pressure storage vessel design shall consider vacuum effects. Where an storage vessel
is not designed for full vacuum, some alternatives, in order of preference, are as follows:
• Design for partial vacuum with a vacuum relief valve and a connection to a reliable
supply of inert gas. This alternative requires a means of venting inert gas that has
been admitted to the storage vessel after it is no longer required for maintaining
pressure.
Procedure
S A Z E H

• Design for partial vacuum with a vacuum relief valve and a connection to a reliable
supply of hydrocarbon gas. This alternative may compromise product quality.
• Design for partial vacuum with a vacuum relief valve that admits air to the vessel.
This alternative presents a hazard from air in the storage vessel (such as LPG
storage vessel), and this hazard shall be considered in the design.
Design temperature
Both a minimum and a maximum design temperature should be specified. In determining
a maximum design temperature, consideration should be given to factors such as
ambient temperature, solar input, and product run down temperature. In determining a
minimum design temperature, consideration should be given to the factors in the
preceding sentence plus the auto refrigeration temperature of the stored product when it
flashes to atmospheric pressure.
Safety/relief valves
LPG storage vessels shall be adequately protected by safety/relief valves directly
connected to the vapor space of the vessel. Safety/relief valves shall be provided to
protect against:
• Overpressurization due to abnormal operational conditions, e.g., overfilling, high
run-down temperatures or high temperature due to solar radiation;
• Overpressurization due to fire exposure.
4.9.2. Refrigeration system
Design pressure and Temperature

The refrigerant shall be maintained at a temperature such that it’s vapor pressure does
not exceed the design pressure of the tank. For systems at or near atmospheric
pressure, consideration should be given to design for additional refrigeration necessary
as a result of changes in atmospheric pressure.
The tank above the maximum liquid level shall be designed for a pressure not less than
that at which the pressure relief valves are to be set and for the maximum partial vacuum
that can be developed.
All portions of the tank below the maximum liquid level shall be designed for at least the
most severe combination of gas pressure (or partial vacuum) and static liquid head
affecting each element of the tank.
The design temperature shall be the minimum temperature to which the tank contents
will be refrigerated. The minimum temperatures of the part of the country where the tank
is to be built shall be considered in the design. Provisions shall be made to minimize
thermal stress concentration during initial cool down of a tank.
Procedure
S A Z E H

Load
The refrigeration load should take into consideration the following factors:
• Heat flow from the following sources:
o The difference between the design ambient and storage temperatures.
o Maximum solar radiation.
o Receipt of product that is warmer than the design temperature, if such an
operation is expected.
o Foundation heaters.
o Heat absorbed through connected piping.
• Vapor displaced during filling or returned during product transfer.

• Changes in barometric pressure.
Vapor handling
The vapor load resulting from refrigeration may be handled by one or a combination of
the following methods:
• Recovery by a liquefaction system.
• Use as fuel.
• Use as process feedstock.
• Disposal by flaring or another safe method.
Alternative handling methods shall be provided to dispose of vented vapors in case of
failure of the normal methods. If compressors are used, castings shall be designed to
withstand a suction pressure of at least 121 percent of the tank design pressure.
Pressure and vacuum relieving devices

• Each tank shall be provided with one or more spring-loaded, weighted-pallet, or
pilot-operated pressure-relief devices. For tanks designed for 104 kPa(g) or more,
the pressure relief valves shall be set to start to discharge in accordance with the
applicable paragraphs of the ASME Code Section VIII. Weighted-pallet valves shall
not be used where start-to-discharge pressure exceeds 104 kPa (g). Weight and
lever pressure-relieving devices shall not be used.
• For tanks designed for pressures below 104 kPa (g), the pressure relief device
shall be set to discharge at no more than the maximum allowable working pressure
of the tank.
• Pilot-operated pressure-relief devices shall be so designed that the main valve will
open automatically and protects the tank in the event of failure of the pilot valve or
other essential functioning device.
Procedure
S A Z E H

• Each tank that may be damaged by partial vacuum shall be provided with at least
one vacuum-relieving device. The vacuum setting shall be such that the partial
vacuum developed in the tank at the maximum specified rate of air (or gas) inflow
will not exceed the partial vacuum for which the tank is designed.
• When double-wall construction is used in which the inner tank holding refrigerant is
surrounded by insulation contained within an outer vapor-tight jacket, the jacket
shall be equipped with a pressure and vacuum relieving device or devices. These
devices shall be set to open at no more than the maximum allowable working
pressure and vacuum of the outer tank.
4.10. Shell Fitting
4.10.1. General
The checklist below covers tank shell fittings which may be required, but the number,
type, and size and location of fittings should be specified in design stage for each tank to
the tank fabricator.
• Branches for tank contents such as:
Inlet, Outlet, Gas Blanket, Pump-out, Water Draw-Off, Jetting and Mixers.
• Branch connections for services and maintenance such as:
Steam, Condensate, Foam (for Fire Fighting), Flush Type Clean Out Doors, Non-Flush
Clean Out Doors.
• Branch for instruments such as:
Level Alarms, (high and low positions), Mixer Cut-Out, Float Switches, Thermowells as
required.
4.10.2. Tank Nozzle Sizes

Tank nozzle sizes shall be the same as the connecting pipe size expect as follows:
• If the nozzle size has been set by process and is larger than the pipe attached
to it, it shall remain larger as per process requirements. If the nozzle size set
by process is smaller than the pipe attached to it, the nozzle size shall be
increased to match the pipe size, provided that a special condition does not
exist to justify the smaller nozzle.
• For liquid draw off from tank, before reducing diameter or making a horizontal
run, a minimum drop of 5 feet in elevation is required, after the piping elbow is
attached to the draw off nozzle.
Vents are located on the top head of tanks. They are located on the top of tanks at
the same end as the drain and at the end opposite from the steam out or purge
connection. All vents are valve and blinded or plugged.
• All vents and drain smaller than 2 in. shall be plugged if permitted by
specification. All vents and drains 2 in. and larger shall be blinded.
Procedure
S A Z E H

• Vent, drains, and steam-out and purge connections for tanks shall be sized as
below table:
Table 10: Tank Nozzle sizing
Equipment Vent Size Drain size Purge size

Volume (ft3) (in.) (in.) (in.)
50 and under 1 1 1
51 to 200 1-1.5 1-1.5 1-1.5
201 to 600 2 2 2
601 to 2500 2 3 2
2501 to 5000 2 3 2
5001 to 10000 3 4 3
10001 to 25000 4 4 3
Above 25000 6 6 2-3
Note: Minimum size vent for tanks and vessels having only one-man way will be 2 in. for
storage tank.
Manholes:
Table11: Tank manhole selection
Procedure
S A Z E H

Branch Details:
Position of inlets: in order to avoid generating a static charge by splashing, inlet
branches (other than for foam) should be positioned so that liquids are not introduced
above the lowest working liquid level. Where a branch jet is required which can be used
for filling purposes, a companion open ended branch should be fitted in the tank shell.
Pump-out Connections for Emptying Tanks: the branch should be sized to suit the
required pump out rate and as a guide the following nominal branch sizes are
suggested:
- Tank diameter less than 20 m (65 ft.): 4 in.
- Tanks 20 m (65 ft.) to 50 m (164 ft.) diameter: 6 in.
- Tanks diameter greater than 50 m (164 ft.) diameter: 8 to 12 in.
Jets and Mixer: Jets and/or mixers may be installed for blending products or crude oils,
ensuring that components are homogeneous and prevent crude oil sludge deposition.
Heaters:
General: When internal tank heaters are installed, flanged joints should be avoided and
all welded construction should be employed wherever possible to reduce the possibility
of heating medium leaking into the tank.
Sizing : the heaters should be sized to ensure that , apart from making good the heat
loss from the tank , the capacity is adequate to warm-up the tank contents in accordance
with operational requirements , e.g. from ambient temperature in one week for heavy gas
oil and two weeks for residues.
Heaters for fixed roof slops tankage: when heating is required for slops tankage it shall
be supplied via steam coils as above, and live steam injection is not permitted. The
heating area may be broken up into coils of different sizes for flexibility. Coils should be
close to the bottom of the tank, preferably in a single layer. Electrical heating may be
used as an alternative to steam.
4.10.3. Fixed Roof Fittings
Vent and Relief Valves:

For fixed roof low pressure tanks containing low flashpoint material, a pressure and
vacuum type breather valve should be provided. This valve should be fitted with a screen
of 6 mm mesh.
For fixed roof non-pressure tanks containing high flash point material, which is never
heated above the flash point, free vents should be provided. These free vents should be
fitted with screens of 6 mm mesh. If however the contents of a fixed roof tank are liable
to be heated above the flash point then pressure and vacuum valves should be fitted.
Sample and Deep Hatch:

One 150 mm (6 in.) hatch for dipping and sampling should be provided.
Procedure
S A Z E H

Sample Points on Slops Tankage:

On tanks where liquid interfaces have to be determined, sample points operable from
ground level are to be installed, at appropriate vertical intervals.
4.10.4. Floating Roof Fittings
Manholes:
Refer to Table-11.
Vents:
The number of rim vents to be fitted to the roof is to be specified by the tank fabricator.
Automatic bleeder vents on crude tanks should be made in stainless steel. The tank
fabricator is to be informed of the maximum flow rates into and out of the tank to allow
him to determine the size and number of bleeder vents required, and also to size an
appropriate vacuum breaker for emergency use when the floating roof has grounded and
pumping continued.
Drains:
Emergency open type drains may be fitted if recommended by the tank fabricator to
double deck type roofs or to pontoon roofs having more than 50% pontoon area. A drain
plug should be provided for use when the tank is taken out of service.
Sample and Deep Hatch:

A tube 6 in. nominal diameter is to be located at the gauging platform, for the combined
purposes of leg guide and dipping. A separate sample hatch 200 mm( 8 in.) is required.
4.11. Dikes
Dike is an earth or concrete wall providing a specified liquid retention capacity.
4.11.1. Dike for Atmospheric above-ground Storage Tank
Dike Arrangement
Dike arrangement for low-flash stocks (those having a closed cup flash point fewer than
55°C and other stock that may be stored at temperatures above or within 8°C of its flash
point) shall be as follows:
• Tankage may be grouped within a single dike, provided a combined capacity of
48000 m3 is not exceeded. Each tank with a capacity of 8000 m3 or greater or
group of tanks with a capacity of more than 8000 m3 shall be separated from other
tanks in the same group by toe wall.
• Two tanks with a combined capacity exceeding 48000 m3, regardless of individual
capacity, may be paired within a single dike. An intermediate dike shall be provided
between paired tanks.
Procedure
S A Z E H

• Single tanks which cannot be grouped or paired shall be enclosed by individual

dikes.
• If roofs are other than floating roofs, the tank diameter shall be limited to 45 m.
Dike arrangement for crude oil stocks shall be as follows:
• Floating roof tanks shall be enclosed by individual dikes, or paired within a single
dike. An intermediate dike shall be provided between paired tanks.
• Fixed roof tanks shall be enclosed by individual dikes. Pairing is not allowed.
For high flash stocks (those having closed cup flash point of 55°C or over), any
number of tanks regardless of total capacity, may be grouped within a single dike
or toe wall.
Dike Capacities
For low flash stocks and crude oils, dike net capacities shall be as per below Table.
Table 12: Dike capacities
Procedure
S A Z E H

Notes:
• Minimum height of dikes, measured from within the dike shall be 300 mm for
concrete dikes, and 450 mm plus any required freeboard for earth dikes. The
freeboard allowance shall be at least 200 mm.
• The required capacity normally shall be provided with dikes no higher than 2 m as
measured from outside of the dike on the side adjacent to the road or access way.
This height does not include freeboard. Height of intermediate dikes between
paired tanks shall be 300 mm less than the height of the peripheral dike both
measurements include freeboard.
4.11.2. Dike for Low-pressure Storage Tank
Single tanks in diked enclosures

The capacity of the dike shall not be less than 75% of the capacity of the enclosed tank.
Paired tanks
Two tanks of similar basic design (i.e. both spheres or both tanks) regardless of capacity
may be paired and enclosed by a single peripheral dike, provided the following
requirements are fulfilled:
• Capacity of the peripheral dike shall be 100% of the capacity of the larger tank
allowing for the displacement of the second tank.
• An intermediate dike shall be provided between paired tanks.
Height of dikes
As measured from within the dike, minimum height shall be 1 m for concrete or earth
dikes plus any required freeboard for earth dikes. The freeboard allowance shall be at
least 200 mm. Additional freeboard may be required for soil consolidation.
As measured from inside or outside the dike, maximum height is limited as follows:
• For tanks storing heavy stocks the dike height, excluding freeboard shall not
exceed 2 m.
• For tanks, storing light stocks the dike height shall not exceed 4 m.
Height of intermediate dikes between paired tanks shall be 300 mm less than the height
of the peripheral dike. Both measurements include freeboard.
5. General Requirements
None.
Procedure
S A Z E H

6. Sizing and Design Procedure

This procedure includes a method for calculating diameter and height of the fixed roof
and external floating roof tanks, minimum liquid level and maximum liquid level in the
atmospheric and low pressure tanks.
It can be used for sizing floating roof tanks with mentioned special consideration too.
6.1. Tank Height Calculation
6.1.1. Fixed roof
Bottom Dead height

Tank dead height is related to the tank dead volume.
Tank dead height is the distance between Tank outlet Nozzle (connected to pump
suction) and tank floor, considering the height needed for preventing vortex in the
connection point of the outlet nozzle with the tank on the outlet line. (This height is equal
to outlet line diameter (d1)).
In this regard, tank dead height (LLLL) is calculated by the following method:
H1=h+ d1 / 2+ d1 (Eq.5)
Where
h= d1+4” if d1<12”
h= d1+5” if d1>12”
Please note that the minimum size of H1 is 24” (refer to Figure 15).
Procedure
S A Z E H

Figure15: Fixed Roof Storage Tank
Vapor space height

Vapor space height of the tank can be calculated by:
H2=d2 - 4”+d2/2 (Eq.6)
Where
d2: Over flow line diameter (Refer to Section 6.6.)
The minimum value of H2 is 18”.
6.1.2. Floating Roof
Dead height:
The roof will be supported off in approximately 1.2 m of bottom, to keep the roof,
therefore
H1 ≥ 1.2
Procedure
S A Z E H

Maximum safe working level:

Maximum safe working level is a level which any additional product will overflow and
contact or damage will occur. This level is taken approximately 0.8 m below the top curb
angle.
H2 ≥ 0.8
Maximum safe working H2

level
Normal fill level
Net working
capacity
Dead stock H1
Figure 16: External (open top) Floating Roof Tank
6.2. Nominal capacity of the tank

Nominal capacity of the tank is the summation of net capacity of the tank (net working
capacity), dead capacity of the tank and liquid volume pumped out of the tank in 3 minute
(between LLL and LLLL).
The later item is important from operation point of view, because operator shall switch off
the pump 3 minutes after hearing the alarm.
B = (H1+ H2) π D2/4 +A+C (Eq.7)
Where
B: Nominal capacity of the tank
D: Diameter of the tank
H1: Tank dead height
H2: Vapor space height or max safe working level
A: Net capacity of the tank
C: liquid volume pumped out of the tank in 3 minute
6.3. Diameter and height of the tank

1. Pick the first bigger value of net capacity (A), from Attachment 1(considering as X ≥ A )
2. Read the related diameter to X from attachment 1.
Procedure
S A Z E H

3. Calculate nominal tank capacity (B) from Eq.7 using this diameter.
4. Compare calculated nominal tank capacity (B) with X :
If B ≤ X then pick the related diameter and height of X from attachment 1 as diameter and
height of the tank.
If B>X then pick the next bigger value for X from the attachment 1 and go to step 2 until
B≤X
6.4. Low Liquid Level (LLL) in the tank
6.4.1. Fixed Roof

Low liquid level in tank is the summation of tank dead head (H1) and height of the liquid in
3-minute suction (h”), which can be calculated as below:
π D2
h“ = (0.2 × Q)/ (Eq.8)

Where:
Q: Pump discharge flow rate in m3/hr
D: Tank diameter, m
h “:liquid height above LLLL in 3-minute suction ,m

Depending on the fluid contained in the tank will determine whether the liquid level
can go below the roof support or not, in most of designs LLL is above the support and
the distance shall be taken as minimum height of liquid above nozzle to prevent vortex.
6.5. High liquid level in the tank
6.5.1. Fixed Roof

After calculating H2 high liquid level height from tank bottom can be calculated as below:
HLL=HT - H2 (Eq.9)

HHLL depends on type of roof and its seal (for more information refer to section B.3.4 of
API-2350) but in lack of detail information it can be calculated as below:
HHLL= 0.95 × (HT – H2) (Eq.10)
Where:
HT : total height of tank
H2: distance from top edge of shell to max safe level (see Figure 16)
Distance between HHLL and HLL depends on time (normally 5-10min) and the loading
pump rate as below:
Procedure
S A Z E H

∆H = (4 t Q)/ 60 π D2 (Eq.11)
Where:
∆H: distance between HHLL and HLL, m
Q: loading pump flow rate, m3/hr
t: time ,min
D: tank diameter,m
6.6. Overflow Liquid Line Sizing
6.6.1. English Unit
Sizing the overflow line

d2 = [(2.79 x 10-7) x N x (W2 / (Δp x D))] 0.25 (Eq. 12)

Where:
W = vessel inflow (lb/hr)
Δp = pressure drop (psig)
N = friction loss (for simple overflow = 1.5)
D = density (lb/cu. Ft.)
d2 = overflow ID (in.)
Overflow Line Capacity
W = [(Δp x D x d24) / (N x 2.79 x 10-7)] 0.5 (Eq. 13)

Where:
W = overflow capacity (lb/hr)
6.6.2. SI Unit
Sizing the overflow line
d2 = [(808 x 10-3) x N x (W2 / (Δp x D))] 0.25 (Eq. 14)

where:
W = vessel inflow (kg/sec)
Δp = pressure drop (pa), [as experience, 996 Pa can be used]
N = friction loss (for simple overflow = 1.5)
D = density (kg/cu. meter)
d2 = overflow ID (m)
Procedure
S A Z E H

Overflow Line Capacity
W = [(Δp x D x d24) / (N x 808 x 10-3)] 0.5 (Eq. 15)

Where:
W = overflow capacity (kg/sec.)
6.7. Pressure Vacuum safety Valve, PVSV, Sizing
6.7.1. Pressure Relief Capacity

PVSV is used for pressure and vacuum relief where vapors must be piped away. The
valve is designed to protect your tank from excessive pressure or vacuum.
Table 14: Pressure relief capacity (Model 1220A from Groth Corporation)
Note: this table is referred as typical.
Flow capacity values listed above are based on full open valves at 100% over-pressure.
For an equivalent size fiberglass valve, reduce tabulated capacities by 32%.
Read the flow capacity at 100% over-pressure directly from the table above. Use linear
interpolation if the set pressure is not listed.
If the allowable over-pressure is less than 100%, modify the flow capacity using the
appropriate “C” factor from the table.
Procedure
S A Z E H

Calculate the percentage over-pressure by the following formula. Note that all pressures
are gauge pressure expressed in the same units of measure.
Pf = Flowing pressure
Ps = Set pressure
% OP = [(Pf - Ps)/Ps] x 100
Calculate flow capacity at less than 100% over-pressure according to the following
example.
6.7.2. Example—Flow Capacity Calculation
6”, 100 mm WC Set Pressure [Ps], 175 mm WC Flowing Pressure [Pf].

1. Read flow capacity at set pressure from table,

2. Calculate over-pressure,(OP)
3. Read “C” factor from table,
4. Calculate flow capacity.
Flow =3,140 NCMH
% OP = [(175 - 100)/100] x 100 = 75%
Find “C” factor from table:
“C” = 0.87
Flow = 0.87 x 3,140 = 2,732 NCMH (normal cubic meter per Hour)
Read “C” factor for 75% Over-pressure at intersection of row 70 and column 5 “C” factor
at 75% OP = 0.87
Table 15: ”C” factor
Procedure
S A Z E H

6.7.3. Vacuum Relief Capacity

Flow capacity values listed below are based on full open valves at 100% over-vacuum.
For an equivalent size fiberglass valve, reduce tabulated capacities by 32%.
Table 16: Vacuum relief capacity (Model 1220A from Groth Corporation)
Note: this table is referred as typical.
Read the flow capacity at 100% over-vacuum directly from the table above. Use linear
interpolation if the set vacuum is not listed.
If the allowable over-vacuum is less than 100%, modify the flow capacity using the
appropriate “C” factor from the table.
Calculate the percentage over-vacuum by the following formula. Note that all pressures
are gauge pressure expressed in the same units of measure.
Pf = Flowing pressure
Ps = Set pressure
% OV = [(Pf – Ps)/Ps] x 100
Calculate flow capacity at less than 100% over-vacuum according to the following
example.
Procedure
S A Z E H

6.7.4. Example—Flow Capacity Calculation
6”, 100 mm WC Set Vacuum [Ps], 175 mm WC Flowing Vacuum [Pf].

1. Read flow capacity at set vacuum from table,
2. Calculate over-vacuum,(OV),
3. Read “C” factor from table,
4. Calculate flow capacity.
Flow = 2,080 NCMH

% OV = [(175 - 100)/100] x 100 = 75%
“C” = 0.87
Flow = 0.87 x 2,080 = 1,810 NCMH
6.8. Process Control and Instrumentation
6.8.1. Control Devices
Level
Alarms, float-controlled valves, or mechanical or remote-reading-level gauges or
protected sight glass gauges shall be installed to aid personnel in properly operating the
fuel system. Tank supplied by pumps shall be provided with all of the following:
• An overflow line
• A high-level automatic shutoff
The overflow line shall be continuous piping, without valves or traps, to the source tank
or collection system. The capacity of the overflow line shall exceed the delivery capacity
of the supply lines to the fuel tank. One of the first steps in selecting or designing a tank
is to determine its capacity. The total capacity is the sum of the inactive (nonworking)
capacity, actual or net working capacity, and the overfill protection capacity (figure-17).
The net working capacity is the volume between the low liquid level (LLL) and the high
liquid level (HLL). For an in-process tank, the net working capacity is calculated by
multiplying the required retention time of the liquid by its flow rate. For large, off-site
storage tanks, the net working capacity is determined by performing an economic
analysis , including items such as the savings in bulk transportation costs, the size and
frequency of shipments, and the risks of a plant shutdown. In some cases, the required
net working capacity may be divided up into multiple tanks, if the size of a single tank is
physically unrealistic, or if separate tanks are needed for other reasons, such as
dedicated service or rundown. The overfill protection capacity of a tank is that between
Procedure
S A Z E H

the HLL and the design liquid level. The design liquid level is set higher than the normal
operating liquid level to provide a safety margin for upsets. The overfill section is filled
with vapor under normal operating conditions.
Fig 17: An aboveground storage tank can have internal coils for heating or cooling the liquid
Pressure / Vacuum Relief Valve

The pressure vacuum relief valve is a protection device mounted on a nozzle opening on
the top of a fixed roof atmospheric storage tank. Its primary purpose is to protect the tank
against rupturing or imploding.
Without an opening or a controlled opening, a fixed roof atmospheric tank would rupture
under increasing pressure caused by pumping liquid into the tank or as a result of a
vapor pressure changes caused by sever thermal changes. Imploding or the collapsing
of a tank occurs during the pumping out procedure or thermal changes. As the liquid
level lowers, the vapor space pressure is reduced to below atmospheric pressure.
Allowing atmospheric air to flow into to tank must control this vacuum condition. In short
the tank needs to breathe in order to eliminate the possibility of rupturing or imploding.
Procedure
S A Z E H

Because of its primary function, a pressure / vacuum valve is commonly referred to as a

breather valve.
Temperature
For heated tanks a multipoint high temperature alarm is required , with 6 sensing points
at suitable vertical intervals, the lowest being 760 mm(2 ft. 6 in.) above the steam coil.
On the opposite side of the tank, a temperature sensing element is required 760 mm
above the steam coil, linked with the steam supply control and shut off valve. A separate
thermowell with local temperature indicator is also required at this point.
6.8.2. Safety Devices

A remotely controlled emergency shut-off valve should be installed at near the vessel
outlet and inlet nozzle to enable the vessel to be isolated from a safe location.
Alternatively, for the inlet nozzle a non-return valve may be installed in the inlet line close
to the vessel.
Pressure gauge connections should be provided with a throttling orifice 1.4 mm diameter
(0.055 in.) downstream of the block valve to prevent excessive flow from the vessel in the
event of possible gauge fracture.
Flame arresters are fire safety devices. They prevent flames from entering a tank and
also provide protection from flashes within a tank. They can also be used as an in-line
flash back prevention device.
7. Attachments
7.1. Attachment#1: Nominal capacities of standard vertical cylindrical tanks
Procedure
S A Z E H

Attachment #1
Nominal capacities of standard vertical cylindrical tanks
(1 Sheet)

Storage Tank Sizing

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Procedure

Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 1 of 55

Rev. Revised Page Nos.

Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 2 of 55

4.3. Dimensions of Storage Tanks...................................................................................... 16

Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 3 of 55

6.1. Tank Height Calculation............................................................................................... 44

6.7.1. Pressure Relief Capacity ...................................................................................... 49

Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 4 of 55

Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 5 of 55

• D: Diameter of the tank, m

Figure 1: Low Pressure Storage Tank

Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 6 of 55

Figure 2: Medium Pressure Storage Tanks

Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 7 of 55

4.2. Selection and Types of Storage Tanks

4.2.2. Atmospheric and Low Pressure Tanks

4.2.2.1. Fixed Roof

Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 8 of 55

are therefore provided with open vents.

Table-1: Maximum design condition for Cone roof tanks

Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 9 of 55

Table-2: Maximum design condition for Dome roof tanks

Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 10 of 55

Figure 3: Typical Fixed Roof Tank

4.2.2.2. External Floating Roof Tanks

Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 11 of 55

Figure 4: Typical External Floating roof (pontoon Type)

Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 12 of 55

Figure 5: External Floating Roof (Double deck)

4.2.2.3. Internal Floating Roof Tanks

Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 13 of 55

Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 14 of 55

Figure 6: Internal Floating Roof Tank

4.2.2.4. Domed External Floating Roof Tanks

Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 15 of 55

Figure 7: Domed External Floating roof tank

4.2.2.5. Variable Vapor Space Tanks

4.2.3. Medium Pressure Tank

Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 16 of 55

4.2.4. Selection of Vertical Tanks

Table 3: Selection of vertical tanks

4.3. Dimensions of Storage Tanks

Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 17 of 55

4.3.2. Diameter and Height

4.4. Safety of Storage Tanks

Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 18 of 55

4.4.1. Water Spraying

4.4.2. Fire Extinguishers

By Air Foam (Figure 9)

Figure 9: Fire extinguishing by air foam

By Fire – Fighting Powder (Figure 10)

Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 19 of 55

Figure 10: Fire extinguishing by powder

4.4.3. Overpressure Protection

• Liquid movement into or out of the tank

4.4.3.1. Aboveground Tanks

Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 20 of 55

Table 4: Thermal inbreathing for tank capacity between 60 to 18000 bbl

1000 1000 600 1000

Normal Venting Devices

Title: Storage Tank Sizing Page 21 of 55

Normal Venting Detail Design

Atmospheric storage tanks shall be adequately vented to prevent the development of