AST Shell Structural Integrity Inspection
TISEC’s AE steel tank inspection procedure satisfies the guidelines set forth in ASTM E 1930-02
Steel AST structural integrity tests typically take about 1/2 day to complete depending on pump capacity, tank capacity, and access limitations. TISEC’s AE steel tank inspection procedure satisfies the guidelines set forth in ASTM E 1930-02 “Examination of Liquid-Filled Atmospheric and Low-Pressure Metal Storage Tanks Using Acoustic Emission”. Atmospheric In-Service Steel Tank Fill Schedule.
Use Acoustic Emission (AE) to inspect new and in-service AST for flaws in:
- Tank walls,
- pad welds,
- nozzle attachments, and
- stiffener welds.
AE detects the following defects:
- Parent and weld metal cracks,
- Stress corrosion cracks, pits, gouges,
- Corrosion product,
- Weld defects: LOF, LOP, porosity,inclusions, undercuts, etc.
Note that new tanks are filled following a 50%, 80%, 90%, 100% schedule. Second loadings may be required on previously repaired tanks. Our American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) certified inspectors have complementary training in fall protection, and confined space safety. With over 1000 above-ground storage tanks tested in United States, Canada, South America, the Middle East, and Asia, we have a proven track record for high quality nondestructive testing services and safety.
The loading schedule is as follows:
- Baseline noise level determination for 10 minutes.
- Hold at 85% capacity for 10 minutes minimum.
- Hold at 95% capacity for 10 minutes minimum.
- Hold at 105% capacity for 30 minutes minimum.
