How AMETank Helps Engineers Ensure API 650 Compliance in Tank Design
Shivali Sharma | Updated on 05 Nov, 2025 |
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In the world of industrial storage tanks—whether in oil & gas, petrochemicals, power plants, water treatment, or other process industries—ensuring safety, reliability and code-compliance is non-negotiable. The standard many engineers turn to for welded, above-ground, atmospheric storage tanks is API 650 “Welded Steel Tanks for Oil Storage”. But simply referencing the code is not enough: engineers must ensure that every shell, bottom plate, roof, anchorage, floating roof, stiffening ring, floating roof seal, seismic uplift, wind load, and bottom settlement scenario is addressed rigorously.
That’s where the advanced software solution AMETank enters the picture. Developed specifically for storage tank design in accordance with API 650 (and related appendices and allied standards), AMETank streamlines the process of design, checking, detailing and documentation. But beyond just tool-automation, the right competency matters—hence the importance of “Ametank Training” to equip engineers with both theory and practical skills.
In this blog we will explore:
Why API 650 matters and the engineering challenge it presents.
How AMETank addresses those challenges and supports compliance.
The detailed functionalities of AMETank across tank design phases: geometry setup, loads (wind, seismic, internal/external pressure, uplift), shell & bottom design, roof design (fixed, floating), foundations and anchorage.
How AMETank integrates with drawing/BOM/3D model generation to enhance accuracy and efficiency.
The specific ways Ametank Training equips engineers to leverage the tool and deliver compliant designs.
Best-practice tips when implementing AMETank in engineering workflows.
A frequently asked questions (FAQ) section to address typical queries.
This article is aimed at design engineers, structural/civil engineers, mechanical engineers, EPC firms, tank-farm designers, and anyone tasked with storage-tank design who wants to understand how using the right tool + training can elevate compliance and performance.
1. Why API 650 Compliance is Critical
1.1 What is API 650?
API 650 is the standard published by the American Petroleum Institute for welded steel tanks for oil storage. It sets out minimum requirements for materials, design, fabrication, erection, inspection and testing of above-ground, vertical, cylindrical, atmospheric storage tanks with flat bottoms, intended to contain petroleum, petroleum products, or other liquids.
The standard is widely adopted globally for oil & gas, petrochemical, chemical processing and water storage applications, because of its depth in addressing structural and operational load cases.
1.2 What does compliance involve?
Compliance with API 650 means the design must address numerous factors:
Shell course thicknesses and weld joint efficiency (Section 5).
Bottom plate design (flat or sloped), welding, corrosion allowance.
Documentation and drawing output is substantial and must tie back to code compliance.
Manual calculations and drafting are time-consuming, error-prone and inefficient.
Errors or omissions can lead to safety risks (leaks, collapse, uplift, containment failure), cost overruns, regulatory non-compliance and reputational damage.
Given all this, engineers require powerful software to model, analyze and document tank designs—and training to use that software effectively.
2. Introduction to AMETank – Tool Overview
2.1 What is AMETank?
AMETank is an engineering software application developed by TechnoSoft Inc. (also identified in various materials) designed specifically for the design and detailing of storage tanks per API 650 and API 620 standards (among others).
The tool enables rapid configuration of tank geometry (bottom, shell, roof, structure, appurtenances) in an interactive feature-based design environment. It automates design calculations, drawing generation, bill of materials (BOM), fabrication reports, cost data, 3D modelling, and ensures that required appendices of API 650 are addressed (such as E for seismic, F for small internal pressure, etc).
2.2 Key features at a glance
Some of the major features of AMETank include:
Support for both shop-built and field-erected tanks.
Support for API 650 Appendices A, C, E, F, H, J, L, M, P, S, V, X.
Automated calculation of design thicknesses, stresses, buckling, wind loads, seismic loads, uplift, sliding checks, etc. As seen in example calculation reports.
Detailed drawings: GA drawings, fabrication drawings, detail drawings, BOM, material purchase tables, cost estimates.
3D modelling capability (for example integration of tank model with structural supports, appurtenances) and export for CAD/fabrication.
Material libraries and code libraries integrated so that design margins, corrosion allowance, weld efficiency, etc are managed consistently.
Rapid turnaround: what might take days manually can be achieved much faster and more reliably.
2.3 Why AMETank stands out
Compared to generic CAD tools or generic structural analysis software, AMETank is purpose-built for storage tank design, with code integration and drawing/documentation automation. According to analysis:
It provides more comprehensive features tailored to tank geometry and code compliance (API 650, API 620, API 653) than many generic design packages.
It reduces manual error risk and accelerates project delivery.
It ensures that engineers are not reinventing calculation spreadsheets but leveraging a validated engine aligned with the standard.
It supports drawing, fabrication and BOM generation, which closes the loop from design to construction.
3. How AMETank Supports API 650 Compliance – A Detailed Walk-through
In this section we detail how AMETank helps engineers systematically address each major component of an API 650 tank, ensuring compliance with code requirements. We follow the typical workflow from design basis through geometry setup, loads, shell & bottom design, roof design, foundation & anchorage, detailing and documentation.
3.1 Establishing the Design Basis
Before any geometry input, compliance demands a clear design basis (per API 650). AMETank supports this by enabling engineers to capture and document:
Design standard (e.g., API 650 12th Edition).
Material specifications (e.g., steel grade A 36M, allowable stresses, joint efficiency, corrosion allowance). Example: report shows A36M, joint 0.7, CA = 1 mm.
Operating conditions: height of liquid, specific gravity, internal/external pressure, temperature.
Tank service: fixed-roof, floating-roof, product stored, full/empty conditions, future expansions.
Appendices applicable: e.g., Appendix E for seismic, C for external floating roof, F for small internal pressure. AMETank captures which appendices apply and automates respective calculations.
By capturing this design basis within the software, the engineer ensures traceability, version control, documentation and clarity for compliance and future inspection.
Once the basis is set, geometry must be defined. AMETank streamlines this in a feature-based manner:
Bottom: flat or sloped, annular vs bearing ring, thickness, joint type. The software allows selection of these options and computes respective stresses and thicknesses.
Shell: diameter, height, number of courses, stiffening rings, anchor chairs, shell course thickness, joint efficiency, corrosion allowance. Example: shell course widths and thicknesses detailed in a sample report.
Roof: type (flat, cone, umbrella/knuckle, self-supported), floating roofs (external/internal), structural supports (columns, girders, rafters). These are selected in the configuration.
Foundation configuration: ring-wall, pad, piles, raft.
3D model: AMETank translates these into GA drawings and optionally 3D view for fabrication planning.
By offering this structured geometry definition, AMETank helps engineers ensure that every part of the tank is addressed rather than relying on ad-hoc inputs.
Calculation of wind uplift on roof (especially external floating roofs or cone roofs) and wind moment on shell. Example: in report, wind velocity 160.8571 kph, moment on roof and on shell calculated.
Sliding and overturning checks: AMETank computes resisting moments, friction, etc. Example: criteria such as 0.6Mw+Mpi<MDL/1.5+MDLRwere applied.
3.3.2 Seismic Loads
Use of spectral response coefficients (Ss, S1) per ASCE7 or equivalent. Example: SDS, SD1 values calculated.
Sloshing load for floating roof or liquid behaviour (Appendix E). Example: computation of Tc (natural period) and wave height Δs.
Anchorage design, shell compression, local shear transfer under seismic loads. AMETank automatically applies API 650 Section E checks.
3.3.3 Internal/External Pressure & Vacuum
Even though many tanks are atmospheric, API 650 Appendix F covers design for small internal pressure or vacuum. AMETank includes support for this appendix so that engineers can reliably check whether pressure/vacuum conditions exist, and perform the requisite calculations. .
3.3.4 Uplift, Sliding, Settlement
The software ensures checks for uplift due to internal/external pressure, wind or seismic, sliding due to wind or seismic, and settlement effects (especially for large foundations). The sample report shows uplift case detailed for anchor design.
3.4 Shell Course & Bottom Plate Design
With geometry and loads defined, AMETank then carries out the shell and bottom plate thickness design per API 650 sections.
3.4.1 Shell Course Design
Minimum nominal thickness of shell courses per Section 5.9.
Checks for shell stresses due to internal pressure (though often atmospheric), hydrostatic stress, buckling under wind/seismic, stiffener requirements (Section 5.9.6). Example: the report shows “Minimum nominal t-min …” and stiffener checks.
Joint efficiency (weld quality) input, corrosion allowance, material yield strength. Example: joint efficiency 0.7, corrosion allowance 1 mm.
Stiffening ring design: AMETank computes required ring modulus, actual ring modulus, and determines if intermediate stiffeners are required. Example: “Number of Intermediate stiffeners req’d (NS) = 0”.
3.4.2 Bottom Plate Design
Bottom plate design per Section 5.4 or sloped bottom per Section 5.5.
Minimum nominal thickness including corrosion allowance. Example: in report t-min = 7 mm for bottom plate versus actual 8 mm.
Checks for hydrostatic test stress, product stress, vacuum, uplift, sliding at foundation interface. Example: calculation of S1, S2 in bottom design.
Roof design can be complex, particularly for floating roofs (internal or external) and is a common area where non-compliance arises. AMETank assists as follows:
External floating roofs: support for Appendix C, calculating shell uplift loads, floating seal loads, buoyancy.
Internal floating roofs: Appendix H.
Selection of roof type is parameterised in AMETank (via geometry input) and the software assigns the correct calculation sequence.
Detailed design and loading checks for roof to shell juncture, participating areas, etc. Example: Ap-Vert, Ap-Horiz calculations.
3.6 Foundation & Anchorage
Ensuring the tank foundation and anchorage are designed in compliance with API 650 is crucial for stability and safety. AMETank supports:
Anchorage design: bottom plate to foundation anchor chairs, bolts, calculating bolt load, uplift, sliding, shear transfer, anchor bolt spacing and number. Example: sample report shows anchor bolt design and calculations.
Settlement and differential settlement checks (though some of these may require geotechnical input).
Foundation loads, ring-wall, pad or pile design integration.
Integration of load case resistances: moments, shear, uplift etc.
3.7 Detailing, Drawings, BOM & Documentation
One of the significant advantages of AMETank lies in its documentation automation:
Automatic generation of General Arrangement (GA) drawings, fabrication drawings and detail drawings (shell courses, stiffening rings, bottom plate layout, roof structure) based on geometry and design outputs.
Bill of Materials (BOM) and material purchase tables: quantities of plates, welds, structural members, bolts. This helps fabrication and procurement accuracy.
Material reports and test reports: list of materials, welds, inspection requirements, non-destructive testing (NDT) interface.
Compliance report generation: design basis, loads, results tables, thickness summaries, joint efficiencies, remarks. This is critical for third-party inspection/approval. Example: sample report shows full table of shell course thicknesses, summary of results.
Costing and project summary: estimation of material weight, cost of steel, fabrication hours (depending on modules).
3D export: enabling integration with other CAD/BIM systems for fabrication, erection planning.
3.8 Quality Checks, Versioning & Traceability
While not always highlighted, AMETank supports good engineering practices:
Version control: each design iteration can be saved with date, revision number, and modifications logged.
Traceability of inputs to results: the design basis sheet, load combinations, geometry inputs, and results are linked.
Warning/alert system: if inputs are outside permissible ranges (e.g., diameter too large for selected shell thickness, or seismic zone parameter inconsistent) the software flags them.
Standard compliance built-in: by selecting API 650 (with appropriate Appendices) the software ensures that every relevant clause or calculation path is considered, reducing chances of oversight.
4. Why “Ametank Training” is Crucial – Beyond Just the Tool
While AMETank is a powerful tool, its value is fully realised only when engineers are trained to use it effectively. That’s where the concept of Ametank Course Online becomes indispensable.
4.1 What does Ametank Training cover?
A well-structured Ametank Training program typically covers:
Fundamentals of storage tank design: codes (API 650, API 620), geometry basics, materials, load cases.
Defining the design basis: how to input site data, material specs, joint efficiency, corrosion allowance, service conditions.
Geometry building: how to set bottom type, shell courses, stiffeners, roof types, floating roof options, appurtenances.
Load case definition: how to input wind, seismic, internal/external pressure, sloshing, vacuum; how to select appendices correctly.
Running design calculations: how AMETank computes shell and bottom thickness, roof design, anchorage design, sliding/overturning.
Review of results: understanding the output tables, identifying potential non-compliances or warnings, design optimisation.
Documentation workflow: generating drawings, BOMs, material reports, design compliance reports.
Practical case studies: applying AMETank to real-life tank projects (fixed-roof, floating roof, large diameter, high seismic zone), including modification iterations, optimisation for cost, fabrication constraints.
Best practice workflows: how to integrate AMETank output into fabrication, procurement, construction.
Advanced topics: integration with CAD/BIM systems, modifications and retrofits, inspection data import, legacy tank upgrade modelling.
4.2 Who benefits from the training?
Design engineers (civil/structural/mechanical) working on storage tank projects.
EPC contractors and tank-farm engineering personnel who need to deliver compliant designs.
Inspectors and third-party reviewers who wish to understand how design software arrives at outputs.
Fabrication and construction managers who need to interpret drawings and BOMs from AMETank.
Graduate engineers and recent entrants who wish to upskill in tank-design software.
4.3 How training enhances compliance and efficiency
It allows engineers to avoid misuse or misunderstanding of the software—for example, incorrect coefficient input, overlooking an appendix load case, mis-defining geometry.
It enhances confidence: engineers can interpret outputs critically rather than blindly accepting results.
It shortens the design cycle: trained engineers can set up geometry, run analyses, and produce documentation faster.
It improves documentation quality: engineers know how to generate and customise reports, drawings and BOMs that will satisfy quality assurance/inspection requirements.
It contributes to cost savings: by training engineers to use optimization features (e.g., refining shell course thicknesses, minimising welds), overall material and fabrication costs can be reduced.
It supports career growth: engineers with AMETank competency become more valuable in industry, and organisations with trained staff reduce dependency on external resources.
4.4 Training modalities and certification
The training may be offered via:
Instructor-led classroom sessions, with live software demonstration.
Live online instructor-led training.
Hands-on workshops with real project datasets.
Self-paced online modules with video lectures and exercise sets.
Certification at the end of the training: practical assessment, submission of a design project.
When selecting a training provider, ensure they include practical case studies, provide licensed software access during training, and allow participants to work on full-scale project exercises.
5. Real-World Benefits of Using AMETank + Training
5.1 Improved design accuracy and reduced errors
By automating complex calculations, AMETank significantly reduces manual computation errors, omissions in load combinations and mis-interpretation of code clauses. Engineers following Ametank know how to set the correct parameters and review outputs, which improves confidence in the design.
5.2 Time and cost savings
Manual CAD drawing generation, manual thickness calculations, manual shell & bottom layout design and multiple iterations take time. AMETank automates much of this, reducing turnaround time from weeks to days. Training ensures that engineers can maximise these speed gains, leading to faster project delivery and reduced engineering cost.
5.3 Enhanced documentation and traceability
As projects move through design, procurement, fabrication and construction, documentation is critical. AMETank’s automated drawing/BOM/report generation ensures consistency, fewer omissions and better traceability of decisions (design basis → geometry → loads → results). Engineers trained in the tool can ensure that documentation meets inspection and regulatory requirements.
5.4 Better integration with project workflows
When AMETank output (3D model, BOM, GA drawings) integrates smoothly with other systems (fabrication shop drawings, procurement, construction planning), the project flows better. Training ensures engineers understand how to export and adapt outputs for these downstream tasks.
5.5 Competitive advantage for firms and engineers
Firms that deploy AMETank and train their engineers appropriately gain a competitive edge: faster design cycles, more accurate, fewer reworks, better cost estimates, higher client satisfaction. Engineers with AMETank proficiency enhance their CVs and career prospects.
5.6 Better compliance, risk mitigation and quality assurance
With AMETank’s built-in code checks, professionals can better ensure compliance with API 650 and its appendices. Training helps engineers review the outputs critically, identify non-compliance early and implement corrective measures. This reduces risk of costly re-designs or failures during commissioning/operation.
6. Best Practice Tips for Engineers Using AMETank
Here are some practical tips to get the most from AMETank (especially after completing Ametank Training) and ensure efficient, compliant designs:
Define a clear design basis up front
Ensure site data (wind, seismic, snow loads), liquid properties, corrosion allowance, joint efficiency are correctly captured.
Select the relevant API 650 edition and applicable appendices (E, C, H, F, J, etc) before starting geometry.
Document assumptions—this becomes the key reference for review and construction.
Use templates and standardised configuration
Develop standard templates (bottom types, shell course groups, roof types) in the software to reduce repetitive entry and ensure consistency across projects.
As part of training, set up company-specific libraries (e.g., preferred steel grades, corrosion allowances, joint efficiencies) so that new projects can be started faster.
Model geometry thoughtfully
For large diameter tanks (> 30 m), review course widths carefully—oversized courses may incur unnecessary thickness or validation issues.
Consider stiffening ring placement early—AMETank will compute required ring modulus but you still need to evaluate fabrication feasibility.
For floating roofs, ensure seal type, flotation ring, deck loading and shell uplift loads are addressed.
Input loads carefully and review results
Wind and seismic parameters must match geotechnical/structural site data; ensure units and factors (e.g., importance factors) are correct.
Review result summaries: thickness checks, shell stresses, uplift/moment checks. If any warnings appear, resolve them before proceeding.
In training, practise interpretation of output tables rather than simply proceeding with defaults.
Optimise for fabrication and cost
After meeting code minimums, evaluate whether selected thicknesses or stiffeners can be optimised for fabrication ease (e.g., fewer welding passes) or material savings.
Use BOM output to review plate weight, weld lengths, fastener counts and cost implications.
Integrate with drawing/fabrication workflow
Once geometry and design is final, generate GA drawings, detail drawings and BOMs early—these feed into procurement, shop fabrication and construction.
Ensure correct export formats (DWG, DXF, PDF, etc) and compatibility with downstream CAD or fabrication software.
Use document control: revision numbers, change log, version control.
Maintain revision traceability
Store previous iterations in the project file; document what changed (e.g., diameter increased, material changed). This helps with change management and inspection.
Enable backup of project files and ensure naming conventions are consistent.
After training, set up best-practice folder structure and naming conventions.
Review and validate thoroughly
Even though AMETank automates complex calculations, the engineer must still review: Are the inputs realistic? Are site conditions correct? Are the load combinations logical? Does the fabrication/erection plan make sense?
Use checklists such as “Have all applied appendices been selected?” “Are all load cases reviewed?” This is often covered in Ametank Training modules.
Continuous learning and updates
Software updates may align to new editions of API 650 or introduce new features (e.g., BIM export). Make sure engineers are aware of update logs.
Regularly revisit modules such as wind/seismic design, floating roofs, especially if your geographic region has evolving code enforcement or geological conditions. Training refreshers can help.
Leverage case-studies and peer learning
Use sample projects (including those in training) to benchmark design settings.
Participate in forums or user groups of AMETank users to learn practical tips, customisation, and workarounds.
7. Illustrative Project Example (Hypothetical Walk-through)
Let’s walk through a simplified hypothetical project using AMETank, highlighting how compliance is ensured at each step (while not diving into code or detailed formulas). This will help illustrate the practical workflow and tie together the theory.
Project Brief
An EPC firm is designing a fixed-roof, above-ground oil storage tank:
Diameter: 30 m
Shell height: 10 m
Liquid: crude oil, specific gravity 0.9
Wind basic speed: 145 kph
Seismic zone: moderate (Ss = 0.15 g, S1 = 0.06 g)
Corrosion allowance: 1.5 mm
Joint weld efficiency: 0.85
Service life: 25 years
Soil: rock/firm, foundation is ring-wall pad.
Workflow in AMETank
Design basis entry: Engineer selects API 650 12th edition, inputs material A36M, joint efficiency, corrosion allowance, wind/seismic data, service liquid.
Export to DWG for fabricator, PDF for client, Excel BOM for procurement.
Revision 1 saved. Change of diameter to 32 m—engineer re-runs model, checks delta, update documentation and BOM.
Implementation & review:
Engineering department reviews output, ensures third-party inspector can trace inputs, loads, results.
Fabrication shop uses drawings and BOM to manufacture shell courses, roof, bottom.
Construction team uses GA drawings and anchor layout for erection and foundation.
Compliance and Risk Mitigation
By using AMETank with correct input and design basis:
Shell and bottom thicknesses meet API 650 minimums and specific load demands.
All relevant load cases (wind, seismic, internal/external pressure, uplift) are checked.
Documentation is generated cleanly for approval and inspection.
Revision control is maintained.
Errors (e.g., shell buckling beyond limit) are flagged early before fabrication.
Thus project risk (over-thick plates, reworks, failed inspections, structural failure) is significantly reduced.
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using AMETank
Even with a powerful software like AMETank, mistakes happen—especially if engineers skip training or default settings. Here are common pitfalls:
Selecting incorrect code edition: For example, using an outdated version of API 650 may omit new clauses.
Failing to set the correct appendices: Many tanks require Appendix E (seismic) or C/H (floating roof) which, if omitted, result in non-compliant design.
Incorrect site data input: e.g., wind speed, terrain category, seismic coefficients or snow load wrongly assumed.
Using default material or joint efficiency values which may not match project specifications.
Neglecting foundation and settlement effects—just designing the tank cylinder without considering foundation may lead to issues.
Blindly accepting software outputs: engineers should review, verify reasonableness of thicknesses, stiffener spacing, bolt loads.
Poor documentation or missing revision control: Without systematic traceability, inspection/approval may get delayed.
Lack of integration with downstream workflows: If drawings/BOMs are not coordinated with fabrication, lead to shop issues.
Under-utilising training: Engineers who are not fully trained may not know how to interpret warnings or adjust parameters effectively.
By undertaking Ametank, engineers can avoid or mitigate these common errors, leveraging the software fully rather than superficially.
9. The Future of Tank Design: Digital Transformation and Role of AMETank
Tank design is evolving rapidly as industries adopt digital engineering, integration with BIM (Building Information Modelling), IoT for monitoring, and predictive maintenance. In that context:
AMETank is well-positioned: because it already offers 3D modelling, drawing/BOM automation and structured output, it can integrate with digital workflows.
The move from manual design to digital twin: Storage tanks are increasingly monitored over their lifecycle (inspection, maintenance, corrosion). Having a detailed digital model (from AMETank) facilitates data analytics and integrity management.
Sustainability and cost optimisation: As materials costs rise, engineers need tools to optimise thicknesses, welds, fabrication, and life-cycle cost. AMETank’s automation helps.
Global compliance & standardisation: With global projects spanning multiple jurisdictions, having a tool that supports API 650 (and other international codes) helps consistency.
Training and digital skills: Engineers will need not only software tools but the ability to interpret outputs, integrate digital workflows, and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams. Ametank Certification becomes a key differentiator.
Post-training support: refresher sessions, updates for new code editions, case-study webinars.
By enrolling in the Ametank Online Training programme, you are not just learning software—you are gaining a skillset that drives compliance, efficiency and career growth.
11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. What is the minimum knowledge required before enrolling in an Ametank Training course?
A1. Ideally, you should have a basic engineering background—mechanical, civil or structural—familiarity with storage-tank fundamentals (shell, bottom, roof, loads) is beneficial. Basic knowledge of steel structures, welding, loads, and familiarity with CAD is a plus. The course will build on that foundation and guide you to using AMETank effectively.
Q2. Does AMETank cover floating-roof tanks or only fixed-roof designs?
A2. Yes, AMETank supports floating-roof tanks. It includes support for external floating roofs (Appendix C) and internal floating roofs (Appendix H) of API 650. The software allows definition of floating seal details, shell uplift, deck loading, buoyancy, and relevant geometry.
Q3. What tank sizes (diameter/height) can AMETank handle? Are there practical limits?
A3. AMETank can handle a broad range of above-ground tank dimensions, whether small diameter (a few metres) or very large (tens of metres). However, practical fabrication, geometry complexity and site conditions will influence input parameters. The software is designed for field-erected and shop-built tanks.
Q4. Can AMETank generate drawings compatible with my CAD shop-fabrication?
A4. Yes, one of AMETank’s strengths is automatic generation of drawings (GA, detail, fabrication) and BOMs. These can be exported in formats compatible with CAD/fabrication workflows. During Ametank Online Course, you will learn how to export and integrate these outputs into fabrication/construction planning.
Q5. How does AMETank handle seismic design requirements?
A5. AMETank incorporates seismic design checks under API 650 Appendix E (and related provisions). It allows input of seismic coefficients (Ss, S1), site class, importance factor, sloshing parameters, drift checks, anchorage design, shell compression under seismic loads, sliding/overturning under seismic. Example calculation shows SDS and SD1 and sloshing wave height Δs.
Q6. What is the cost and licensing model for AMETank?
A6. Licensing details depend on the software provider (TechnoSoft Inc.) and vary by region, features (single user vs network licence), modules (floating roof, seismic, 3D export). It’s best to contact the software vendor for up-to-date pricing. Meanwhile, training providers often give temporary access for training purposes.
Q7. After training, what kind of support is available?
A7. Many training programmes offer post-course support: software updates, Q&A sessions, access to user forums, refreshers on new code editions, access to sample data sets. When selecting a program for Ametank Course, confirm the availability of such support.
Q8. Is AMETank suitable for retro-fit or inspection projects of existing tanks?
A8. While AMETank is primarily designed for new design of above-ground welded tanks per API 650/620, some engineering firms use it for evaluations of existing tanks by modelling them and comparing current geometry/loads to code. For full inspection and integrity management (e.g., API 653 in-service inspection), additional tools or modules may be required. But AMETank provides a strong foundation for structural evaluation.
Q9. Are there any geographic/industry constraints when using AMETank?
A9. No significant constraints: AMETank supports international design practices (via API codes which are globally referenced). Whether you are in oil & gas, petrochemicals, water/wastewater, power, or LNG, the fundamental tank design challenges are similar. Of course you’ll need local site data (wind, seismic, soil, code equivalents) and possibly local code supplements, but AMETank’s flexibility and training ensure you can adapt accordingly.
Q10. How can I demonstrate ROI of using AMETank and investing in training?
A10. You can demonstrate ROI via:
Reduced design time (e.g., design cycle reduced from X weeks to Y days).
Fewer errors/re-designs: measured by number of revision cycles avoided.
Material optimisation: reduced steel weight or fabrication hours.
Faster procurement and fabrication start due to streamlined drawings/BOM.
Better documentation leading to faster inspection/approval and fewer field corrections.
Training ensures your engineers are proficient in the tool, which maximises these benefits.
12. Conclusion
Designing storage tanks to the standard of API 650 is challenging—requiring, among other things, precise geometry, correct load definitions, accurate shell and bottom plate design, robust anchorage and foundation checks, and comprehensive documentation. Without the right tools and competence, engineers risk inefficient designs, non-compliance, costly re-works, safety issues and schedule delays.
By adopting AMETank, organizations gain a powerful, purpose-built software solution that automates much of the complexity of tank design: geometry configuration, load computations, shell and bottom plate design, roof design, anchorage, drawing generation, BOMs and reporting. But as with any tool, the value is unlocked only when engineers are skilled in its use—hence the critical role of Ametank.
Through training, engineers gain the conceptual foundation (tank design, code comprehension, load cases) as well as hands-on proficiency in AMETank (setting up projects, interpreting outputs, generating deliverables, integrating with fabrication workflows). This synergy of tool + training delivers real organisational benefits: faster design turnarounds, fewer errors, stronger compliance, improved documentation, lower costs and higher competitiveness.
Whether you are embarking on the design of a new fixed-roof tank, a large diameter floating-roof tank, or evaluating a retrofit scenario in a seismic region, the combination of AMETank and structured training gives you confidence, capability and efficiency.
If you’re an engineer or firm tasked with above-ground storage tank design, this is the moment to upskill. By investing in Ametank Online Training, you’re investing not just in a software licence, but in your future capability, your career advancement and the safety, reliability and efficiency of your storage-tank projects.
Shivali is a Senior Content Creator at Multisoft Virtual Academy, where she writes about various technologies, such as ERP, Cyber Security, Splunk, Tensorflow, Selenium, and CEH. With her extensive knowledge and experience in different fields, she is able to provide valuable insights and information to her readers. Shivali is passionate about researching technology and startups, and she is always eager to learn and share her findings with others. You can connect with Shivali through LinkedIn and Twitter to stay updated with her latest articles and to engage in professional discussions.
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