Which code is applicable to LPG storage tank modifications?

Which code is applicable to LPG storage tank modifications?

• A. NFPA 58
• B. OSHA 1910
• C. ASME Section VIII
• D. API 650

Answer: (C)

The key idea here is that LPG storage tanks that contain LPG under pressure are pressure vessels, and any changes to their pressure boundary must meet the rules for designing and fabricating pressure vessels. ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, specifically covers the design, materials, fabrication, examination, and testing of pressure vessels and their components, including alterations or repairs that affect the vessel’s strength or safety. That makes it the primary code to apply when modifying an LPG storage tank’s pressure boundary, to ensure the vessel remains safe and compliant after any changes. NFPA 58 focuses on the safe storage and handling of LPG systems and the overall installation of bulk LPG facilities, which is important for safety but does not govern the engineering requirements for altering the pressure boundary of a vessel itself. API 650 addresses atmospheric aboveground storage tanks for petroleum liquids, which are not pressure vessels; LPG tanks that operate under pressure are not primarily governed by API 650. OSHA 1910 covers general workplace safety regulations, not the specific design and fabrication rules for pressure vessels. So the best fit for modifications that affect the pressure-containing parts of an LPG storage tank is ASME Section VIII.

The key idea here is that LPG storage tanks that contain LPG under pressure are pressure vessels, and any changes to their pressure boundary must meet the rules for designing and fabricating pressure vessels. ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, specifically covers the design, materials, fabrication, examination, and testing of pressure vessels and their components, including alterations or repairs that affect the vessel’s strength or safety. That makes it the primary code to apply when modifying an LPG storage tank’s pressure boundary, to ensure the vessel remains safe and compliant after any changes.

NFPA 58 focuses on the safe storage and handling of LPG systems and the overall installation of bulk LPG facilities, which is important for safety but does not govern the engineering requirements for altering the pressure boundary of a vessel itself. API 650 addresses atmospheric aboveground storage tanks for petroleum liquids, which are not pressure vessels; LPG tanks that operate under pressure are not primarily governed by API 650. OSHA 1910 covers general workplace safety regulations, not the specific design and fabrication rules for pressure vessels.

So the best fit for modifications that affect the pressure-containing parts of an LPG storage tank is ASME Section VIII.