API 650
API 650 is an American Petroleum Institute (API) standard titled 'Welded Tanks for Oil Storage', which specifies the design, fabrication, erection, and inspection requirements for vertical, cylindrical, aboveground, welded steel storage tanks in the petroleum and petrochemical industries. It covers tanks with internal pressures near atmospheric and is widely used for storing crude oil, refined products, and other liquids. The standard ensures safety, reliability, and environmental protection in tank construction and operation.
Developers, particularly those in engineering, oil and gas, or industrial software, should learn API 650 when working on projects involving storage tank design, inspection, or compliance software, as it is a critical regulatory requirement in many jurisdictions. It is essential for ensuring structural integrity and preventing leaks or failures in large-scale storage facilities, with use cases including tank design calculations, maintenance scheduling, and safety audits.