API RP 652 is the recommended practice for Linings of Aboveground Petroleum Storage Tank Bottoms, offering practical guidance for the selection, application, and upkeep of tank bottom linings. For buyers evaluating a technical reference, this edition helps teams understand how lining decisions can support storage tank integrity and long-term serviceability in petroleum storage environments. It is especially relevant where aboveground tanks require consistent maintenance planning, inspection awareness, and documentation aligned with recognized API guidance. The 5th edition, published in 2020, provides a current reference point for engineering and field use.

Purpose of API RP 652

The purpose of API RP 652 is to provide application-oriented guidance for linings used in aboveground petroleum storage tank bottoms. As an API Recommended Practice, it serves as a practical reference rather than a strict requirements document, helping users approach lining-related decisions with more consistency and technical discipline. It is commonly used to support planning, specification review, and maintenance decisions tied to tank bottom protection. For organizations managing storage tanks, the document can help align engineering, inspection, and operating practices around a recognized industry method.

How is API RP 652 used in practice?

API RP 652 is typically used by operations, maintenance, inspection, and integrity teams responsible for aboveground petroleum storage tanks. It may support day-to-day work such as reviewing lining approaches, coordinating maintenance activities, and keeping inspection and preservation practices aligned with established API guidance. In refinery, terminal, and storage facility settings, the document can help field supervisors and technical staff make more consistent decisions about tank bottom lining work. Procurement and engineering teams may also use it as a reference during specification and technical review.

Why teams use API RP 652

Teams use API RP 652 to improve consistency in how tank bottom linings are planned, applied, and maintained. It can help reduce ambiguity during technical review, support clearer communication between engineering and field personnel, and provide a shared reference for inspection and maintenance workflows. For buyers, that makes it useful as a practical standard for documentation, project planning, and operational reliability efforts. API RP 652 is also valuable when organizations want a recognized API reference to support internal procedures and quality-focused decision-making.

• Aboveground petroleum storage tank bottom linings
• Application and maintenance guidance
• Inspection and integrity reference
• Operations and field implementation support
• Engineering and specification review
• Maintenance planning and technical consistency