Overview

Our API 653 Aboveground Storage Tank Inspector Course prepares those who wish to achieve API 653 certification. This is a difficult exam and preparation is key. 653 certified Inspectors must have a broad knowledge base relating to tank inspection and repair of aboveground storage tanks and will satisfy the minimum qualifications specified in API Standard 653, Tank Inspection, Repair, Alteration, and Reconstruction.

The API 653 Aboveground Storage Tank Inspector Course, maximises the chance of passing your certification exam 1st time, and benefits employers and the industry by helping to;

  • Improve management control of repair, reconstruction and maintenance.
  • Reduce the potential for inspection delays.
  • Provide a continued high level of safety using highly specialised and experienced inspectors.

With an average global 1st-time pass rate of just 60%, can you afford not to train with us? Our courses have 95%+ 1st-time pass rate, save yourself the heartache of doing these difficult exams twice. Do it with us, do it once!

Confusing your storage tanks for pressure vessels? Not to worry, we’ve got that covered too. Our API 510 Pressure Vessel course is just as good!

Course Outline

  • Corrosion rates and inspection intervals
  • Joint efficiencies
  • Static head calculations
  • Establishing weld sizes for shell and roof opening
  • In-service repairs relating to 653
  • Calculate maximum allowable working pressure
  • Pressure testing procedures and calculations
  • Settlement evaluation
  • Welding procedure qualification and procedure review
  • ASME V Non-destructive testing procedures
  • Impact testing requirements
  • Calculation of minimum thickness for internal pressure including bottom plates
  • Damage mechanisms as per API 571 (653 selection only)
  • General rules for welding and examination in an API and ASME context

  • Successfully pass the API 653 storage tank Inspector certification exam
  • Effectively use major codes: API 650 and ASME B&PV Sections V & IX
  • Perform all tank calculations needed for API exam
  • Use API’s codes during inspection, repairs, and alterations of tanks
  • Review welding procedures (WPS/PQR) and welder performance qualifications (WPQ)

Module 1 - API 650

  • Introduction to API 650
  • Scope & Definitions
  • Shell Design
  • Shell Stresses
  • Examination & Welding

Module 2 - ASME IX & API 577

  • Introduction to ASME IX & API 577
  • Scope & Definitions
  • Welding General Requirements
  • Welding Procedure Qualifications
  • Welding Performance Qualifications
  • Welding Data
  • Welding Inspection, Processes & Procedures
  • Metallurgy

Module 3 - ASME V

  • Introduction to ASME V
  • Radiographic Examination
  • Liquid Penetrant Inspection
  • Magnetic Particle Inspection
  • Ultrasonic Inspection

Module 4 - API 653 & 575

  • Introduction to API 653 & 575
  • Scope & Definitions
  • Types of Tanks
  • Suitability for Service & Brittle Fracture Considerations
  • Inspection, Inspection Plans, Leak Testing & Materials
  • Methods & Reasons for Inspection
  • Design Considerations for Reconstructed Tanks
  • Repair, Alteration, Dismantling & Reconstruction
  • Welding, Examination & Testing

Module 5 - API 571, 651, 652

  • Introduction to API 571
  • Damage Mechanisms
  • Cathodic Protection
  • Tank Bottom Linings

Module 6 - Mock Exams

  • Closed Book Mock Exams
  • Open Book Mock Exams

Please Note

This training is provided by Wilkinson Coutts Engineering Training Ltd.

The classroom portion will take place at CWB's Nisku, Alberta Facility.

Information regarding API Joining Instructions plus the online training access and log-in details will be sent to participants upon registration of the classroom portion.

For more information on API courses and exams, please contact Wilkinson Coutts Engineering Training Ltd. at: info@wilkinsoncoutts.com or +44 333 444 0060

Upcoming Classes

Dates Location Instructor Price
June 15th to 19th, 2026 Nisku - CWB Office -- $1,795.00 Register