32 Samss 002 PDF

Materials System Specification
32-SAMSS-002
Manufacture of Fiberglass-Reinforced
Plastic (FRP) Storage Tanks
Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee
13 December 2011
Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

Table of Contents
1
Scope............................................................ 2
Conflicts and Deviations................................ 3
References.................................................... 3
Definitions...................................................... 5
Responsibilities............................................. 6
Materials........................................................ 6
Design........................................................... 7
Fabrication................................................... 18
Inspection and Testing................................ 22
10
Nameplate................................................... 30
11
Shipping...................................................... 31
12
Tank Labeling.............................................. 34
13
Documentation............................................ 34
Appendix A Flowchart for Material Selection

Criteria and Qualification Testing..... 35
Previous Issue: New
Next Planned Update: 13 December 2016

Page 1 of 35
Primary contact: Naffaa, Mahmoud Youniss on 966-3-8809614

CopyrightSaudi Aramco 2011. All rights reserved.

Issue Date: 13 December 2011
32-SAMSS-002
Scope
1.1
This specification defines the minimum mandatory requirements for the

manufacture of Fiberglass-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) storage tanks.
The requirements are in addition to and supplement the requirements of
ASME RTP-1 Reinforced Thermoset Plastic Corrosion Resistant Equipment.
1.2
This specification covers cylindrical tanks having internal or external pressure

not exceeding 103 KPa (15 psi) and used in process plants (onshore and
offshore), bulk plants, building services, fuel dispensing, and community
facilities for the storage of the following services:
a)
Water.
b)
Oily water.
c)
Combustible products (Hydrocarbons, Alcohols, Alcohol-Gasoline

Mixtures).
d)
Flammable liquids.
e)
Chemicals.
1.3
The Tank Manufacturer shall comply with all requirements of this specification
and ASME RTP-1, except that ASME-stamping is not mandatory for tanks
designed for atmospheric pressure.
1.4
This specification covers shop fabricated tanks with and without thermoplasticlining, in sizes that permit complete shop assembly and delivery to the
installation site in one piece and shall not exceed 6 m (20 ft) in diameter, with a
maximum storage capacity not exceeding 1500 barrels.
1.5
This specification does not cover the following:
1.6
a)
Portable or movable containers.
b)
Tanks constructed of furan or phenolic resins.
c)
Tanks with non-glass structural reinforcements.
d)
Tanks having metallic liners.
e)
In-service storage tanks.
This specification may be attached to and form an integral part of a purchase

order.
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1.7
32-SAMSS-002
Proposals
1)
The Tank Manufacturer's proposal shall be based on details for individual

tank and the requirements of this specification.
2)
The Tank Manufacturer may offer an alternative design, but must quote on
the base inquiry documents.
3)
The proposal shall include a detailed description of any exception to the

requirements of this specification.
Conflicts and Deviations

2.1
Any conflict between this specification and other Saudi Aramco Materials
System Specifications (SAMSSs), Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards
(SAESs), industry codes and standards, and Saudi Aramco Standard Drawings
(SASDs) and Forms shall be resolved in writing by the Company or Buyer
Representative through the Manager, Consulting Services Department of Saudi
Aramco, Dhahran.
2.2
Direct all requests to deviate from this specification in writing to the Company or
Buyer Representative, who shall follow internal company procedure SAEP-302
and forward such requests to the Manager, Consulting Services Department of
Saudi Aramco, Dhahran.
References
Materials or equipment supplied to this specification shall comply with the latest edition
of the references listed below, unless otherwise noted.
2.1
Saudi Aramco References

Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedures
SAEP-302
Instructions for Obtaining a Waiver of a Mandatory

Saudi Aramco Engineering Requirement
Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards

SAES-A-007
Hydrostatic Testing Fluids and Lay-Up Procedures
SAES-A-112
Meteorological and Seismic Design Data
SAES-M-001
Structural Design Criteria for Non-Building

Structures
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32-SAMSS-002
Saudi Aramco Materials System Specifications

09-SAMSS-107
Qualification Requirements and Application of

Composite Fluoropolymer/Ceramic Coatings to
Fasteners
32-SAMSS-037
Material Specification for the Manufacture of

Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Tanks
Saudi Aramco Standard Drawings

Saudi Aramco Inspection Requirements
2.2
Form 176-325300
Tanks: Fiberglass,according to ASME RTP-1 Saudi

Aramco Forms and Tank data sheets
Form NMR-7918-1
Nonmaterial Requirements for Tanks
Industry Codes and Standards

American Petroleum Institute
API STD 2000
Venting Atmospheric and Low-Pressure Storage

Tanks
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)

ASME RTP-1
Reinforced Thermoset Plastic Corrosion Resistant

Equipment
ASME B16.5
Flanges and Flange Fittings Sizes NPS through

NPS 24
ASME B18.22.1
Plain Washers
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

ASTM D638
Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of

Plastics
ASTM D695
Test Method for Compressive Properties of Rigid

Plastics
ASTM D790
Test Methods for Flexural Properties of Unreinforced

and Reinforced Plastics and Electrical Insulating
Materials
ASTM D2583
Test Method for Indentation Hardness of Rigid

Plastics by Means of a Barcol Impressor
ASTM D2584
Test Method for Ignition Loss of Cured Reinforced

Resins
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32-SAMSS-002
ASTM D3299
Standard Specification for Filament-Wound GlassFiber-Reinforced Polyester Chemical-Resistant

Tanks
ASTM D4097
Standard Specification for Contact-Molded GlassFiber-Reinforced Thermoset Resin ChemicalResistant Tanks
ASTM E84
Standard Test Method for Surface Burning

Characteristics of Building Materials
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)

ASCE 7
Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other

Structures
Process Industry Practices (PIP)
PIP STF05501
Fixed Metal Ladders and Cages Details
PIP STF05520
Pipe Railing for Walking and Working Surfaces

Details
PIP STF05521
Angle Railing for Walking and Working Surfaces

Details
PIP STF05535
Vessel Platform Details
PIP VESFG001
Fiberglass Tank and Vessel Selection, Design, and

Fabrication Specification ASME RTP-1 and
Section X
Definitions
Critical Service: Any service other than water.
Combustible Liquid: A liquid that has a flash point greater than 54C (130F).
Examples are fluids such as diesel, C7+ feed stocks, bunker fuel, and sulfur.
A combustible liquid stored at a temperature equal to or higher than 8C (15F) below
its flashpoint shall be considered to be a flammable liquid.
Design Engineer: The Engineering Company responsible for specifying design
requirements on the tank data sheet. It is also referred to as Engineering Contractor.
Flammable Liquid: A liquid that has a flash point equal to or less than 54C (130F).
Examples would be fluids such as stabilized crude, gasoline, Jet A-1, Jet JP-4, Jet JP-8,
C6 and lighter feed and blending stocks, and methanol.
Fire Retardant Resin: Halogenated resin that can be used with or without additives to
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32-SAMSS-002
provide a laminate with a flammability spread not exceeding 25, as measured in

accordance with ASTM E 84.
Manufacturer: The Company responsible for the design, fabrication and testing of
tanks in accordance with this Specification. It is also referred to as Fabricator.
Owner: Saudi Aramco organization which will utilize the tank and specifies the
process requirements.
Saudi Aramco Engineer: The Chairman of the Vessels Standards Committee.
Saudi Aramco Inspector: The person or company authorized by the Saudi Aramco
Inspection Department to inspect tanks to the requirements of this specification.
Tank data sheet: Users Basic Requirements Specification (UBRS) as per paragraph
1-200 of ASME RTP-1.
5
Responsibilities
The tank Manufacturer is responsible for design, material, fabrication, examination,
inspection, testing, certification (if applicable), venting of the tank(s), surface
preparation, and preparation for shipment in accordance with the tank data sheet and
requirements of this specification.
Materials
6.1
All materials of construction shall be as specified on the tank data sheet.
6.2
Raw materials used for the manufacture of tanks, including resins, reinforcing
materials), additives and, if applicable, thermoplastic liners shall be selected and
specified by the Design Engineer/ Manufacturer according to requirements of
32-SAMSS-037. Materials for ring joint gaskets must be chemically resistant
and mechanically suitable for the intended service conditions.
6.3
All physical and mechanical properties of the laminate(s), which will be used for
the manufacture of tanks, shall be provided by the manufacturer according to
requirements of 32-SAMSS-037.
6.4
Qualification testing for raw materials and laminates to be used in manufcature

of tanks shall be according to requirements of Appendix A of this specification
and 32-SAMSS-037.
6.5
Prior approval by the Saudi Aramco Engineer is required for use of alternative
materials of construction. Alternative materials must comply with all the
requirements of ASME RTP-1 and this specification.
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6.6
7
32-SAMSS-002
All tanks shall be constructed of fire retardant resins, as defined in this standard.
Design
7.1
7.2
Design Pressure and Temperature

7.1.1
The design pressure and coincident maximum temperature shall be as

specified in the tank data sheet.
7.1.2
Unless otherwise specified on the tank data sheet, the design pressure
will be assumed to be at the top of the tank in the operating position.
7.1.3
Design pressure acting at the bottom of the tank shall take into account
pressure head, both static and dynamic, due to the maximum liquid
level.
7.1.4
The external design pressure and corresponding temperature shall be as

specified on the tank data sheet.
Maximum Allowable Working Pressure

The tank Manufacturer shall calculate the maximum allowable working pressure
(MAWP) acting on the top of the tank based on the specified nominal
component thickness (but reduced by the specified liner thickness).
7.3
Minimum Design Temperature

The minimum design temperature and coincident pressure shall be as specified
on the tank data sheet.
7.4
Service
The service of a tank; water, oily water, combustible product or chemical shall
be as specified on the tank data sheet.
7.5
Design Loads
Following loads shall be as specified in the Tank data sheet
7.5.1
Dead Load (L1)

The Dead Load is the installed weight of the tank including internals,
platforms, linings, piping, and other permanent attachments.
7.5.2
Operating Live Load (L2)

The Operating Live Load is the weight of the liquid at the maximum
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32-SAMSS-002
operating level.
7.5.3
Pressure Load (L3)

The Pressure Load is the MAWP (internal or external at the coincident
temperature) load, including the pressure drop through the tank.
7.5.4
Thermal Load (L4)

Thermal Loads are loads caused by restraining thermal
expansion/interaction of the tank and/or its supports.
7.5.5
Test Load (L5)

The Test Load is the weight of the test medium, i.e. water. Design
basis shall consider that the tank will be tested in its normal operating
position.
7.5.6
Wind Load (L6)

The Wind Load shall be determined in accordance with the procedures
detailed in ASCE 7, using Occupancy Category III and based on
design data corresponding to the site location per SAES-A-112.
7.5.7
Seismic Load (L7)

The Seismic Load shall be determined in accordance with the
procedures detailed in ASCE 7, using Occupancy Category III and based
on design data corresponding to the site location per SAES-A-112.
7.5.8
Piping and Superimposed Equipment Loads (L8)

Loads caused by piping (other than the dead load) and superimposed
equipment shall be considered as applicable.
7.5.9
Dynamic Loads (L9)

Loads caused by the action of vibratory equipment (e.g., agitators),
liquid sloshing, sub-liquid surface jets, etc.
7.5.10
Earth Load (L10)

Weight of earth burial over the tank.
7.5.11
Live Load (L11)

Loads imposed by personnel during erection and operation.
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7.5.12
32-SAMSS-002
Bouyancy Load (L12)

Load imposed on underground tanks due to liquid (including rainwater)
filling partailly or completely the reinforced concrete containment.
This load can be ignored if complete drainage is provided for.
7.5.13
Transportation Load (L13)

Load imposed during transport of tank.
7.6
Load Combinations
7.6.1
Tanks and their supports shall be designed to meet the most severe of
the following load combinations:
1.
(1.8) L1
Transportation of tank
2.
L1+L6
Erected Condition with Full Wind Load
3.
L1+L2+L3+L4+L6+L8+L9
Design Condition with Full Wind Load
4.
L1+L2+L3+L4+L7+L8+L9
Design Condition with Seismic Load
5.
L1+ (F) L3+L5+ (0.25) L6
Initial Hydrostatic Test Condition with

Tank in Normal Operating Position and
25% of Wind Load
6.
L1 + L3 + L10
Initial pressure testing of buried tanks
7.
L1+L3+L4+L7+L8+L9+L10
+L11
Design condition for buried tanks
8.
L1+L3+L4+L7+L8+L9+L11
+L12
Design condition for underground tanks
Note:
7.6.2
7.7
F is the minimum required increase over MAWP to be marked on the tank

and is equal to 1.1 to 1.2.
Anchor bolts shall be designed for load combinations, based on the

allowable stress design method (Service Loads) in accordance with
SAES-M-001.
Stress Analysis
7.7.1
Where applicable, the requirements for thermal stress and fatigue stress
analyses shall be specified in the data sheet by the Design Engineer in
accordance with this standard. Stress combination limits presented in
ASME Section VIII, Division 2, Section 5, shall be used.
7.7.2
The Design Engineer is responsible for specifying the heat transfer

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32-SAMSS-002
coefficients to be used for all thermal stress analyses.

7.7.3
Thermal Analysis
1)
Thermal analysis shall be based on gradients under steady state

design conditions and also, if applicable, transient design
conditions.
2)
As a minimum, the scope of the stress analysis shall include the

following junctures, as applicable:
-
7.7.4
Fatigue Analysis
1)
Scope of the required stress analysis shall be specified by the

Design Engineer in accordance with the rules of ASME Section
VIII, Division 2, Section 5.
2)
As a minimum, the scope of the stress analysis shall include the

following junctures, as applicable:
-
7.7.5
Head-to-shell
Roof-to-shell
Bottom-to-shell
Support-to-tank
Nozzle-to-shell, considering external piping loads
Internal support-to-vessel wall
Head-to-shell
Roof-to-shell
Bottom-to-shell
Support-to-tank
Nozzle-to-shell, considering external piping loads
Internal support-to-vessel wall
3)
Analysis shall be based on the calculated number of cycles for a

minimum 20 year service life, as determined in accordance with
the rules of ASME Section VIII, Division 2, paragraph 5.5.2.
4)
The number of cycles shall include the number of start-ups, shutdowns, emergency shut-downs, and upset conditions.
Local Stress Analysis

Stress analysis due to piping, equipment, lifting, supports and other
external loads shall be completed employing the finite element method.
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7.8
32-SAMSS-002
Component Design
7.8.1
Heads and Shells

7.8.1.1
Principal dimensions of the shell and heads including

diameter, height or length, minimum wall thickness
(including liner thickness) and head shape shall be as
7.8.1.2
Top heads of vertical tanks, if specified, shall be designed

to support a 114 kg (250 pound) person walking anywhere
on the head, in addition to any external pressure.
7.8.1.3
Maximum deflection of the top head or flat bottom head

under all combinations of loadings shall be % of span at
any location.
7.8.1.4
On any flat-sided tank, the maximum deflection of any wall

shall not exceed % of span at any location.
7.8.1.5
If a tank shall be agitated by a vertical, top-entering

agitator, the agitator shall not be supported from the tank
head unless an advanced analysis of all agitation loadings
into the top head is performed. The shell shall be
reinforced with external circumferential stiffening ribs if the
tank is agitated.
7.8.1.6
The shells of an open-top, vertical tank shall be provided

with a reinforcing ring at the top of the tank shell. The ring
shall be of sufficient rigidity to maintain the shape of the
tank.
7.8.1.7
Dished heads subject to internal or external pressure or

hydrostatic loads shall be reinforced at the head-to-shell
joint in accordance with ASME RTP-1, Figure 4-1(a), with
full-thickness reinforcement extending from the joint along
the shell a length equal to that specified for the knuckle
region, but not less than 76 mm (3 inches), measured from
shell-to-head junction. Both ends of the reinforcement
overlay shall terminate with a taper over an additional
distance at least four times the reinforcement full thickness.
7.8.1.8
Flat-bottom tank shall be reinforced in accordance with

ASME RTP-1, Figure 4-2, and have a 38 mm (1.5 in)
minimum knuckle radius. In addition, flat bottoms shall be
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32-SAMSS-002
suitable for installation on flat, cushioned surfaces without

the use of grout.
7.8.2
7.8.1.9
Shell joints shall be reinforced in accordance with

ASME RTP-1, Figure 4-1(a), with full-thickness
reinforcement extending on both sides of the joint a
minimum length equal to that specified for the knuckle
region, but not less than 76 mm (3 inches). Both ends of
the reinforcement overlay shall terminate with a taper over
an additional distance at least four times the reinforcement
full thickness.
7.8.1.10
Interior overlay for joints shall be a minimum of 76 mm

(3 inches) wide on each side of the joint. Both ends of the
overlay shall terminate with a taper over an additional
distance at least four times the overlay full thickness.
Nozzles and Manways

7.8.2.1
The quantity, size, orientation and location of nozzles shall

be as specified in the tank data sheet.
7.8.2.2
Design shall conform to ASME RTP-1, Figure 4-10.
7.8.2.3
Minimum nozzle size shall be 50 mm (2 in).
7.8.2.4
Threaded connections, bulkhead fittings, or pad-type

nozzles are not be permitted.
7.8.2.5
All nozzles that are 100 mm (4 in) and less shall be

equipped with plate or conical gussets in accordance with
ASME RTP-1, Figure 4-13.
7.8.2.6
All manways and nozzles except those providing clearance

for connecting internal piping (i.e., dip pipe mounting
nozzles), instrumentation, or other specified penetrating
nozzles and internal appurtenances shall be installed flush
with the inside of the equipment in accordance with
7.8.2.7
Where penetrating nozzles are required, they shall be

installed in accordance with ASME RTP-1, Figure 4-5.
7.8.2.8
The placement of nozzle installation and cutout

reinforcement laminates shall be in accordance with
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7.8.3
7.8.4
32-SAMSS-002
7.8.2.9
The reinforcement for nozzles and other tank openings shall

be external to the tank wall, and the area of opening
reinforcement shall be increased where necessary to limit
shear stress to 1380 KPa (200 psi).
7.8.2.10
all nozzles with internal projections shall have the ends

capped or wrapped with the same number of surfacing veils
present in the corrosion-resistant barrier of the shell and
heads.
7.8.2.11
All nozzle necks that extend inside the tank shall not
contain any woven roving.
7.8.2.12
If corrosion-resistant barrier thicker than 2.5 mm (0.1 in)

are required, the increased thickness above 2.5 mm (0.1 in)
shall be added to the thickness given in ASME RTP-1,
Figure 4-10.
Nozzle Flanges
7.8.3.1
All flanges shall be flat-faced and molded integrally with

nozzle stub in accordance with ASME RTP-1,
Figure 4-11(b).
7.8.3.2
Flange drilling, dimensions, and thickness shall be in

accordance with ASME RTP-1, Figure 4-10 for 345 KPa
(50 psi) minimum rating, unless a higher rating is required.
7.8.3.3
Unless otherwise specified, bolt holes in flanged nozzles

shall straddle natural tank centerlines.
7.8.3.4
Bolt holes shall also be spot faced on the back of the flange
for ASME B18.22.1 Type-A Narrow washers.
Manways
7.8.4.1
The number, size and location of manways shall be as

7.8.4.2
Manway dimensions shall be in accordance with

ASME RTP-1, Table 4-2, and installed in accordance with
7.8.4.3
All manways shall be flush with the inside of the tank and
be provided with studs, bolts, gasket, and cover.
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7.8.4.4
7.8.5
7.8.6
32-SAMSS-002
All manway covers shall be provided with two handles for

lifting.
Gaskets
7.8.5.1
Gasket type, thickness, and material shall be as specified on

the tank data sheet.
7.8.5.2
Materials for ring joint gaskets must be chemically resistant

and mechanically suitable for the intended service
conditions.
7.8.5.3
Unless otherwise specified, all gaskets shall be 3 mm ( in)

thick, full-faced elastomeric types having a Shore A
durometer hardness of 60 (plus or minus 5).
Bolting
7.8.6.1
Bolting shall be as specified on the tank data sheet.
7.8.6.2
Bolts are permissible in sizes up to and including M25 (1 in)

in diameter. Studs shall be used in sizes over M25 (1 in).
7.8.6.3
Flange bolting material shall conform to A193 Grade B7 for

bolts with A194 Grade 2H for nuts or better metallurgy.
7.8.6.4
Material of construction for anchor bolts shall be

ASTM A193/ A193M, ASTM F1554 Grade 36 or
ASTM F1554 Grade 105 with the corresponding material of
construction for nuts according to SASD AA-036322.
7.8.6.5
Flange bolting materials exposed to SSC environment shall

conform to ASTM A193 Grade B7M for bolts with
ASTM A194 Grade 2HM for nuts.
7.8.6.6
All bolts and nuts used for underground tanks and buried
tanks shall be coated with a Fluoropolymer coating in
accordance with 09-SAMSS-107.
7.8.6.7
Materials of construction for external bolts and nuts in

offshore facilities shall be compatible with the marine
environment.
7.8.6.8
Nuts shall be semi-finished heavy hex pattern.
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7.8.7
32-SAMSS-002
Supports
7.8.7.1
The type of tank supports shall be as specified in the tank

data sheet.
7.8.7.2
The Manufacturer is responsible for proper design of the

tank supports even if design details are shown on the tank
data sheet.
7.8.7.3
Tank supports shall be designed for all maximum

coincident loading conditions.
7.8.7.4
If seismic and wind loads are specified, these loads shall be

considered in the support design, but shall not act
concurrently.
7.8.7.5
The loading and weight basis of the support design shall be

included in the design calculations.
7.8.7.6
Flat-bottom tanks shall be installed with fully supporting

foundations and shall be anchored. Minimum size of
anchor bolts shall be M25 (1 in).
7.8.7.7
Design of anchors shall be in accordance with ASME RTP-1,

Appendix NM-4, with hold-down clips in accordance with
ASME RTP-1, Figure NM4-5.
7.8.7.8
Suspended tanks shall use design methods given in ASME

RTP-1, Appendix NM-5.
7.8.7.9
If horizontal tanks require saddles for support, a finite

element analysis shall be performed to design the supports
and check for excessive stresses in the shell and heads.
(Note: A Zick analysis shall not be used to design horizontal
tank support systems because of the different properties
of fiberglass laminates versus metallic plates. Multiple
saddles and additional stiffening are typically required.)
7.8.7.10
Skirt supports shall be attached to the tank in accordance

with ASME RTP-1, Figure 4-8 with knuckle reinforcement
and Skirt attachment overlay mat/ woven roving according
to paragraph 7.8.1.7 of this specification.
7.8.7.11
All skirts shall be provided with vent and access openings

in accordance with Appendix C of PIP VESFG001,
fabrication detail VESFG001-02.
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32-SAMSS-002
7.8.7.12
Skirt hold-down methods shall be in accordance with PIP

VESFG001, fabrication detail VESFG001-03.
7.8.7.13
Design of anchor bolts shall be based on the following

allowable stresses:
a) 104 MPa (tension).
b) 69 MPa (shear).
7.8.8
7.8.9
7.8.10
Body Flanges
7.8.8.1
If required, body flanges, shall be designed in accordance

with ASME RTP-1, Appendix NM-2, and shall always
contain woven roving.
7.8.8.2
Body flanges shall be flat and true to a tolerance in accordance

with ASME RTP-1, Table 4-1and Paragraph 4-700.
7.8.8.3
Under no circumstances shall the finished machined and

resin coated flange thickness be less than that specified.
Stiffening Rings
7.8.9.1
If provided, stiffening rings shall be a minimum of 5 mm

(3/16 in) thick and be constructed similar to ASME RTP-1,
Figure 4-7. Other shapes such as trapezoidal, triangular or
flat ribs may be used.
7.8.9.2
The required moment of inertia for stiffening rings used to

support the shell against external pressure is given in
ASME RTP-1, Paragraph 3A-330.
7.8.9.3
Core materials used to help form the rib shape shall not be
considered to increase the moment of inertia.
Internals
7.8.10.1
Unless otherwise specified, all internals shall be

manufactured with the same materials as the equipment wall.
7.8.10.2
Metallic pipe for tubing or coils shall be as specified on the

tank data sheet and shall be suitable for cold bending.
Formed pipes shall be specified with heat treatment to
restore its mechanical properties after forming.
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7.8.12
32-SAMSS-002
7.8.10.3
Coils and other internal piping, trays, or other internals shall

be supported to prevent vibration or breakage during
shipping and operation.
7.8.10.4
Baffles for agitated tanks shall be of the wedge type with

sealed ends or the plate type with gussets in accordance
with Appendix C of PIP VESFG001, fabrication detail
VESFG001-04.
7.8.10.5
Support ledges for packing supports or other heavy

internals shall be integrally molded into the wall or shall
utilize a plate clamped between body flanges in accordance
with Appendix C of PIP VESFG001, fabrication detail
VESFG001-05. Secondary bonded rings may also be used
to support lighter loads such as trays but they shall be well
sealed and all cut edges shall be capped with veil.
7.8.10.6
All internals shall be covered with a full corrosion-resistant

barrier on the outside and all edges shall be capped with
surfacing veil. A coating of resin only shall not be
permitted.
7.8.10.7
Secondary bonded internals shall not contain woven roving;

they shall be all mat construction.
7.8.10.8
On internal piping with butt joints, the joint edges shall be

wrapped with surfacing veil before the butt joint overlay is
attached.
7.8.10.9
Internal glued joints are not permitted.
Ladders, Platforms, and Handrails

6.8.12.1
Ladders, platforms and handrails shall be provided as

6.8.12.2
Design and material for ladders, platforms, and handrails

shall be in accordance with PIP STF05501, PIP STF05520,
PIP STF05521, and PIP STF05535.
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32-SAMSS-002
Fabrication
8.1
Laminates
8.1.1
8.1.2
Corrosion Resistant Barrier

8.1.1.1
The corrosion-resistant barrier shall be 2.5 mm (0.1 in)

thick minimum, and consist of as a minimum, 1 ply of
surfacing veil and 2 or more plies of chopped strand mat
totaling 915 gr/m (3 oz/ft).
8.1.1.2
Spray-up or chopped strand mat from a chopper gun shall

not be permitted in the corrosion-resistant barrier.
8.1.1.3
Colorants, thixotropic, or fire retardant additives shall not

be permitted in the corrosion-resistant barrier.
8.1.1.4
Paraffin used for surface cure and fillers may be used to

increase abrasion resistance.
8.1.1.5
Only C glass, polyester, or carbon surfacing veils shall be

permitted in the corrosion-resistant barrier.
8.1.1.6
The corrosion-resistant barrier shall not be used in

structural calculations to determine tank wall thickness.
8.1.1.7
For tanks having a thermoplastic lining, the fiberglass

corrosion-resistant barrier described in paragraph 8.1.1.1
can be omitted. However, a conductive layer shall be
placed directly behind the thermoplastic liner to enable the
entire liner surface to be spark tested.
Structural Layer
8.1.2.1
The structural layer shall consist of multiple plies of glass

cloth, such as chopped strand mat and woven roving, in
contact-molded construction or multiple cycles of filament
winding roving interspersed with chopped strand mat and/or
oriented glass cloth.
8.1.2.2
All shells, filament-wound and contact-molded, shall have a

minimum axial strength of 632 kg/cm (9000 psi).
8.1.2.3
Pigments shall not be added to the structural layer.
8.1.2.4
The structural layer shall not be applied until the corrosionPage 18 of 35

32-SAMSS-002
resistant barrier has been allowed to gel so that resin will

not be squeezed out of the corrosion-resistant barrier during
the fabrication of the structural layer.
8.1.3
8.1.4
8.1.5
8.1.2.5
A layer of chopped strand mat shall always be laid directly

behind the corrosion-resistant barrier as the start of the
structural layer.
8.1.2.6
The resin used in the structural layer shall be the same as

that used in the corrosion-resistant barrier.
Exterior Layer
8.1.3.1
The exterior layer shall consist of either chopped strand

mat, a gel coat, resin paint, or surfacing veil.
8.1.3.2
UV inhibitor or pigment shall always be provided in the

exterior layer. The exterior layer is the only part of the tank
wall that may be painted or pigmented.
8.1.3.3
Painting or pigmenting shall be done after all internal

inspections are completed.
8.1.3.4
On polyester and vinyl ester resin tanks, a paraffinated

topcoat shall be applied unless resin paint is applied.
Cut Edges
8.1.4.1
For any interior cut edges exposed to the chemical

environment, the edges shall be capped with resin and have
the same number of surfacing veils as the corrosionresistant barrier.
8.1.4.2
If machining of flange faces is required, the faces shall be

faced with surfacing mat. All other exterior machined
surfaces or cut edges (e.g., bolt holes) shall be coated with
resin only.
8.1.4.3
Under no circumstances shall the finished machined and

resin coated flange thickness be less than that specified in
the Purchase Order.
Joints and Secondary Bonds

8.1.5.1
All resin for capping cut edges and making joints,

secondary bonds, and coatings (and elsewhere throughout
Page 19 of 35

32-SAMSS-002
the equipment) shall be the same resin used to construct the

structural wall and corrosion-resistant barrier.
8.1.6
8.1.7
8.1.8
8.1.5.2
Interior secondary bonds covering shell and head joints

shall be a minimum of 76 mm (3 in) wide on each side of
the joint and shall consist of a minimum of 1 ply of
surfacing veil and 3 plies of 457 gr/m (1 oz/ft) chopped
strand mat.
8.1.5.3
If the corrosion-resistant barrier thickness exceeds the

thickness in paragraph 8.1.5.2, the interior lay-up shall
match the corrosion-resistant barrier.
8.1.5.4
Each successive ply shall overlap the preceding ply by

12 mm (1/2 in) beyond each side. The first ply shall be a
minimum of 76 mm (3 in) wide minimum.
Lapping of Reinforcements
8.1.6.1
All edges of reinforcing material shall be lapped a

minimum of 25 mm (1 in) for mat and oriented cloth and
50 mm (2 in) for woven roving.
8.1.6.2
Lapped edges of adjacent layers shall be staggered.
8.1.6.3
The laps in nozzle reinforcing pads shall be located at least

45 degrees from the longitudinal axis of the tank.
Tapering of Secondary Bonds

8.1.7.1
To minimize stress concentrations, all interior and exterior

secondary bonds shall be tapered at the edges a minimum of
6:1.
8.1.7.2
The material in the taper shall not be included in the required

structural strength of the bond.
Thermoplastic Liners
Thermoplastic liners shall meet the requirements of ASME RTP-1
Appendix M-12.
8.1.9
Mold Release Agents

8.1.9.1
Molds shall be prepared using a layer of polyester film,

carnauba-based paste wax, or polyvinyl alcohol.
Page 20 of 35

8.1.9.2
8.2
8.3
32-SAMSS-002
All mold release agents shall be removed before inspection

and shipment.
Laminate Tolerances
8.2.1
Laminate thickness tolerances shall be in accordance with

ASME RTP-1, Subpart 2C.
8.2.2
Incorrect laminate sequence shall not be permitted even if the laminate

thickness exceeds requirements.
8.2.3
The fiberglass corrosion resistance barrier thickness shall be 2.5 mm

(0.1 in) minimum.
Laminate Acceptance Criteria

The laminate acceptance criteria shall be in accordance with paragraph 9.4 of
this specification and Table 6-1 of ASME RTP-1.
8.4
8.5
Repairs
8.4.1
Before start-up of a repair, method and extent of repair shall be

approved by the Owner/ Design Engineer and the ASME RTP-1
Certified Individual.
8.4.2
All repairs shall be in accordance with ASME RTP-1, Appendix M-7.
Post Curing
8.5.1
If required by the tank data sheet or Purchase Order, the post curing
shall consist of a cure temperature of at least 82C (180F) for a
minimum of four hours.
8.5.2
Post curing by placing the tank in a circulating hot air oven is

preferred. Circulating hot air from external sources inside the tank or
using steam may also be used.
8.5.3
If steam is used for post curing, care shall be taken so that the steam
sparge pipe does not impinge on the interior surface or inside any
nozzle.
8.5.4
Steam sparge pipes shall project at least 300 mm (12 in) minimum
beyond the interior surface of the nozzle and 300 mm (12 in) minimum
from any wall.
8.5.5
Less than 34.5 KPa (5 psig) pressure steam shall be used for post
curing.
Page 21 of 35

8.6
32-SAMSS-002
8.5.6
During the steam post curing process, the tank shall be maintained at
atmospheric pressure.
8.5.7
If hot air for the post cure is generated by fired heaters, a clean burning
fuel such as propane or natural gas shall be used. Kerosene shall not
be permitted.
Fabrication Tolerances
In addition to the mandatory fabrication tolerances given by ASME RTP-1,
Figure 4-9, the recommended Users fabrication tolerances given by
ASME RTP-1, Figure NM7-1, shall be met.
Inspection and Testing

9.1
9.2
Inspection shall be in accordance with Saudi Aramco Inspection Requirements

Form 175-325300 and the relevant industry standard, this specification and the
following additional requirements:
9.1.1
Saudi Aramco shall have the right to inspect the fabrication at any state
and to reject material or workmanship, which does not conform to the
specified requirements.
9.1.2
Written reports and evaluations of all inspections performed shall be

submitted to the Saudi Aramco Inspector.
9.1.3
Prior to final inspection and pressure testing, the inside and outside of
the tank shall be thoroughly cleaned of oil, grease, marking
compounds, mold release agents, grinding dust, stray glass fibers,
general shop soil, etc.
Resin Cure Tests

All resin cure tests shall be in accordance with ASME RTP-1, Paragraph 6-910,
and the following requirements:
9.2.1
Barcol Hardness Tests

All fabricated equipment shall be cured to a minimum of 90% of the
resin manufacturers recommended Barcol hardness for fully cured
laminates.
9.2.1.1
Post curing may be required to attain the required hardness.
9.2.1.2
Barcol hardness values of laminates containing organic or

carbon fiber surfacing veils can be 3 to 5 points less than
Page 22 of 35

32-SAMSS-002
those specified.
9.2.2
9.3
9.4
9.2.1.3
Values measured when the tank temperature is greater than

21C (70F) can also be lower. Cooling of the surface may
be necessary to obtain specified values.
9.2.1.4
Barcol hardness tests shall be determined in accordance

with ASME RTP-1, Paragraph 6-910.
Acetone Sensitivity Tests

9.2.2.1
For polyester and vinyl ester resin tanks, all potential airinhibited cure surfaces shall be checked for acetone
sensitivity.
9.2.2.2
A tacky surface after application of acetone indicates an

under cured laminate. To correct this nonconformity, the
surface shall be recoating with a paraffinated wax topcoat.
Laminate Thickness Checks

9.3.1
The thickness of laminates shall be checked in accordance with

ASME RTP-1, Paragraph 6-920.
9.3.2
A spot check of all pressure containing laminates shall be performed.
9.3.3
Permissible thickness tolerances shall be in accordance with the

applicable standard.
Laminate Visual Acceptance Checks

9.4.1
All laminates shall be checked visually in accordance with

9.4.2
The acceptance criteria shall be in accordance with ASME RTP-1,

Table 6-1.
9.4.3
Unless the Owner/ Design Engineer has declared the tank to be in

critical service, corrosion-resistant barriers shall be in accordance with
ASME RTP-1, Table 6-1, for Level 2 laminates. If critical service is
declared on the tank data sheet, the laminates shall meet Level 1
requirements.
9.4.4
The maximum permissible air entrapment density for ASME RTP-1,

Table 6-1, Level 1 and Level 2 laminates shall be 10 bubbles per 6.45
square centimeters (1.0 square inch) for the corrosion-resistant barrier.
Page 23 of 35

9.5
32-SAMSS-002
9.4.5
For structural laminates, the maximum density shall be 10 bubbles per

6.45 square centimeters (1.0 square inch) for bubbles 1.5 mm (1/16 in)
and smaller or 4 bubbles per 6.45 square centimeters (1.0 square inch)
for bubbles larger than 1.5 mm (1/16 in).
9.4.6
The criteria for foreign inclusions in the corrosion-resistant barrier

shall be a maximum dimension of 0.76 mm (1/32 in) with a maximum
density of 1 particle per 929 square centimeters (square foot) for both
Level 1 and Level 2 laminates.
9.4.7
Thermoplastic liners shall be in accordance with ASME RTP-1,

Appendix M-12, Table M12E-1, Lining Visual Inspection Acceptance
Criteria.
Laminate Physical Property and Proof Tests

If specified in the tank data sheet or when ASME RTP-1 tank is designed for
gauge pressures 2 psi (13.8 kPa) and greater, the physical property tests of fullycured specimens described in this Section shall be conducted by the
Manufacturer or a qualified and experienced independent laboratory using
ASTM test methods:
9.5.1
Test Specimen Preparation

9.5.1.1
Test specimens shall be a full thickness of the laminate as

produced and not be machined on the surface.
9.5.1.2
Test specimens shall be marked with the Owners

equipment number and sample location so that results can
be correlated to the specific production piece sampled.
9.5.1.3
Specimens prepared from shell cutouts less than 4.88 m

(16 feet) in diameter shall be cut in the axial direction of the
cylinder to minimize specimen curvature.
9.5.1.4
Specimens prepared from filament-wound shells 4.88 m

(16 feet) or more in diameter shall be cut and tested in both
the hoop and axial directions.
9.5.1.5
Specimens prepared from flat laminates shall have their

long axis parallel to the warp of the woven roving.
9.5.1.6
Depending on thickness, tensile test specimens shall be

Type I or Type III, in accordance with ASTM D638,
Figure 1.
Page 24 of 35

9.5.2
9.6
32-SAMSS-002
9.5.1.7
Flexural test specimens shall be Type I in accordance with

ASTM D790. For thicknesses greater than 5.84 mm
(0.230 in), specimen dimensions shall be interpolated to the
nearest 1.5 mm (0.062 in).
9.5.1.8
Edge compressive test specimens shall be in accordance

with ASTM D695, Paragraph 6.2. For thicknesses less than
13.3 mm (0.525 in), specimens may be plied to
approximately 13.3 mm (0.525 in). The ends of
compressive test specimens shall be milled flat and true at
90 degrees to the surface plane of the specimens.
Testing Specimens
9.5.2.1
Tensile properties shall be determined on specimens in

triplicate in accordance with ASTM D638, speed B, i.e.
5.08 mm (0.20 in) per minute.
9.5.2.2
A load extension plot shall be made and the chart speed

recorded.
9.5.2.3
All flexural tests shall be made with the liner face of the
laminate in compression (under the loading nose).
9.5.2.4
If edge compression properties are required, three

specimens shall be tested in accordance with ASTM D695.
9.5.2.5
Test reports shall be provided in duplicate to the Owner.
9.5.2.6
Test reports shall include all pertinent details in accordance

with the Report section of the applicable ASTM test
method. Load-elongation and load-deflection plots shall be
included.
Laminate Reinforcement Content Tests

9.6.1
Reinforcing sequence shall be checked by visual means at nozzle

cutouts and joint edges.
9.6.2
If a visual check is not practical, a burnout test shall be made on three

specimens in accordance with ASTM D2584.
9.6.3
The guidelines given in ASME RTP-1, Paragraph 6-930, shall be

followed.
Page 25 of 35

9.7
32-SAMSS-002
Pressure Test
9.7.1
After completion of fabrication and all repairs, as applicable, tanks

shall be pressure tested using water as the testing media in accordance
with SAES-A-007.
9.7.2
Flat sidewall deflection shall not exceed % of span during the

hydrotest.
9.7.3
Test pressure shall consider full hydrostatic loading in the erected

position.
9.7.4
All testing shall be in accordance with this specification and

9.7.5
Test Water
9.7.6
9.7.5.1
Hydrostatic testing of tanks shall be performed with water

that is clean and free of debris.
9.7.5.2
Potable water is acceptable for fiberglass tanks.
9.7.5.3
Brackish or untreated water shall not be used.
9.7.5.4
Test water in contact with austenitic stainless steel internals

shall have a maximum chloride content of 50 ppm with pH
value not exceeding 7 at the time of filling the tank.
9.7.5.5
If the test water will be in contact with stainless steel

internals for more than 72 hours, the water shall be treated
with an appropriate biocide to prevent biologically induced
corrosion of stainless steel.
9.7.5.6
The Manufacturer shall provide all facilities and materials

(e.g., blinds, bolting, and gaskets).
Test Temperature
Before applying the test pressure, the test water and tank material shall
be permitted to equalize to approximately the same temperature.
9.7.7
Hold Time
Unless otherwise specified, the final hydrostatic test pressure shall be
held for a minimum of one hour.
Page 26 of 35

9.7.8
32-SAMSS-002
Post Test Requirements

After completion of the hydrostatic test, the tank shall be drained,
dried, and closed as quickly as practicable. This includes drying
internals.
9.7.9
Horizontal Tanks
Horizontal Tanks shall be designed to support a full weight load of
water.
Horizontal Tanks shall be tested while resting on its support saddles
without additional supports or cribbing.
9.7.10
Flanged Joints
All flanged joints, irrespective of conformity to ASME B16.5, shall
meet the following requirements:
9.7.10.1
Testing shall be performed with gaskets and bolting for

flanged joint assemblies (e.g., main shell joints, manways,
and blind flanged nozzles) identical to those required in
service and as specified on the data sheet. These gaskets
may be used as service gaskets if the bolted joint is not
disassembled after completion of hydrostatic pressure
testing.
9.7.10.2
The manufacturer shall supply the following:

a)
Minimum two sets of spare gaskets with a blind flange

for each manway and blinded nozzle in the tank.
b)
Minimum one set of service gasket set and two sets of

spare gaskets for each nozzle with companion flanges
in the tank.
c)
All bolting with minimum 10% spare bolting

(3 minimum for each size) per tank.
9.7.10.3
In no case shall the nominal thickness of sheet or laminate

gasketing be less than 3 mm ( in).
9.7.10.4
Unless otherwise specified, joint sealing compound or

gasket lubricant shall not be permitted.
Page 27 of 35

9.8
9.9
9.10
32-SAMSS-002
Pneumatic Test
9.8.1
In cases where a hydrostatic test is not feasible, tanks built to this

specification shall be pneumatically tested to 1.1 times the design
pressure.
9.8.2
Because of the inherent danger of pneumatically testing a relatively

non-ductile material, extreme caution shall be taken if conducting this
test.
9.8.3
All pneumatically tested tanks shall be remotely monitored by acoustic

emission examination during the test.
9.8.4
After the tank has been brought up to the test pressure and held for
30 minutes minimum, the pressure shall be reduced to 80% of test
pressure or less and all nozzles and manway joints shall be checked for
leaks.
Vacuum Test
9.9.1
All tanks designed for vacuums below 1.47 kPa (6 in of water column)
shall be vacuum tested as well as hydrostatically tested.
9.9.2
The vacuum test shall be performed after the hydrostatic test.
9.9.3
If the tank is designed only for vacuum, it shall be vacuum tested with
acoustic emission monitoring.
Additional Tests for Buried Tanks

A tank shall be subjected to the following tests and shall not implode, leak or
otherwise damaged:
9.10.1
External Pressure Test

An empty tank shall be installed in a test pit using specified anchoring
system and backfill procedure. The pit shall then be filled with water
and the tank shall be subjected to an external pressure as specified in
the following table:
Page 28 of 35

Depth of
Cover
Applied External Water

Pressure
32-SAMSS-002
Holding
Time
Additional
Superimposed
Negative
Pressure
Holding
Time
0-914 76 mm
(036 3 in)
(D + 914 76) mm of water

[(D + 36 3) in of water]
24 hours
18 kPa
(5.3 in Hg)
1 minute
> 914 76 mm
(036 3 in)
(D + H 76) mm of water
[(D + H 3) in of water]
Or
(D + 914 76) in of water +
9.78 [(H/1000) - 0.914] kPa
superimposed negative
pressure
[(D + 36 3) in of water +
0.8826 [(H/12) - 3] in of Hg]
24 hours
18 kPa
(5.3 in Hg)
1 minute
D: Tank Diameter in mm [in]

H: Desired depth of cover in mm [in])
9.10.2
9.11
Earth Load Test

9.10.2.1
An empty tank shall be installed in a test pit or an apron

shall be constructed around the four sides of the tank.
Backfilling shall be done according to the Manufacturers
instructions. The tank shall be covered so that it is 0.9 m
(3 ft) below the surface of the fill. The tank is to remain
buried for at least 1 hour.
9.10.2.2
While the tank is still buried, it is to be subjected to a

concentrated load of 10,161 kg (22,400 lb) applied to a
load-bearing plate 500 by 500 mm (20 by 20 in) at the top
of the cover material.
Acoustic Emission Test

9.11.1
Tanks designated in critical service and shall have an acoustic emission

examination performed during the hydrostatic test.
9.11.2
The testing shall be conducted by a qualified independent testing

agency approved by the Owner.
9.11.3
The acceptance criteria shall be in accordance with ASME RTP-1,

Appendix M-8.
9.11.4
Test procedures and equipment shall be in accordance with

ASME SEC V, Article T-11.
Page 29 of 35

9.12
10
32-SAMSS-002
Sample Cutouts
9.12.1
All cutouts from tank laminates shall be marked to identify the tank
number and sample location and shall be retained for the Owners
inspection.
9.12.2
Cutouts shall be the property of the Owner as defined in this

specification.
9.12.3
Cutouts shall be retained at the Manufacturers facility for 12 months

minimum after shipment, unless instructed otherwise by the Owner.
9.12.4
The extent to which cutouts shall be used for mechanical property

testing shall be in accordance with the purchase order.
Nameplates
10.1
The completed tank shall be provided with a nameplate in accordance with

ASME RTP-1, Paragraphs 1-530, 1-540, and 1-550.
10.2
Nameplates shall be 3-mm minimum thickness and manufactured from type 304
stainless steel or Monel and continuously welded to the mounting bracket.
The mounting bracket shall be permanently attached to the tank.
10.3
The following information shall be provided on the RTP-1 tank nameplate or a

separate nameplate:
a)
Users tank number
b)
Initial test pressures
c)
Purchase order number
d)
Resin used
e)
Liner construction
f)
Capacity in gallons
g)
Estimated weight when empty, full of process fluid, and full of test water.
10.4
Nameplates shall be located in an accessible location.
10.5
The Manufacturer shall show the nameplate location and information provided
on the dimensioned fabrication drawing.
10.6
On insulated tanks, the nameplate shall be located on a bracket that extends

25 mm (1 in) beyond the insulation thickness.
Page 30 of 35

11
32-SAMSS-002
Shipping
11.1
11.2
Cleaning and Painting or Pigmentation

11.1.1
The tank shall be cleaned inside and outside and shall be free of oil,
grease, marking compounds, mold release agents, grinding dust, stray
glass fibers, and general shop soil. The interior shall be dried after
testing and cleaning.
11.1.2
After all internal and exterior laminate quality inspections have been
completed; the tank shall be painted or pigmented with an exterior
resin coat in accordance with the data.
11.1.3
Any exterior carbon steel surfaces (e.g., hold-down clips, ladders,

platforms, and handrails) shall be prepared and painted or galvanized
in accordance with the tank data sheet.
11.1.4
To protect from rust, exterior alloy steel bolting shall be coated with a
lubricant, galvanized or PTFE-coated.
Preparation for Shipment

11.2.1
11.2.2
Nozzle Covers
11.2.1.1
Blind flanged connections, including manways, shall have

the blinds attached with a full complement of new bolts.
These bolts may have been used for the hydrostatic test.
11.2.1.2
All nozzles shall be provided with covers.
11.2.1.3
All flange faces other than those furnished with permanent

blinds shall be covered with 12 mm ( in) thick wood or
3 mm ( in) thick steel plate no smaller than the flange
outside diameter.
11.2.1.4
The cover shall be secured with a minimum 25% (but no

fewer than four) complement of bolts.
Internals
11.2.2.1
If any internals cannot be safely shipped in place, the

internals shall be assembled in the tank to assure the
internals fit properly in accordance with any specified
clearances or tolerances.
11.2.2.2
After the trial assembly is completed, the internals shall be

Page 31 of 35

32-SAMSS-002
removed, identified, tagged, and shipped separately.

11.2.3
11.3
Accessories
11.2.3.1
All bolting and other loose parts shall be suitably packaged

and labeled with the purchase order number.
11.2.3.2
Uncoated bolts and nuts shall be coated with a suitable

thread lubricant to prevent corrosion during transportation
and storage.
11.2.3.3
The thread lubricant shall be easily removable with mineral

spirits or a solvent.
Handling and Lifting

Impact or excessive distortion can cause cracking or crazing of the laminate
structure. Therefore, the following handling and lifting recommendations shall
be followed:
11.3.1
Vertical fiberglass tanks shall be provided with lifting and/or tailing

lugs for moving or repositioning.
11.3.2
Tanks shall not be rolled, slid, dropped, or thrown.
11.3.3
All shop-built tanks shall be provided with metal lifting lugs designed
by the Manufacturer for a shock factor of 1.8.
11.3.4
If lifting lugs are not provided, woven fabric rigger-slings of 76 mm

(3 in) width minimum shall be used for lifting cylindrical tanks in a
horizontal position.
11.3.5
Open-end equipment (e.g., open top tanks) shall be provided with

internal cross bracing or external structure to prevent damage from
distortion during handling and transporting.
11.3.6
For lifting an uncrated and unskidded open-end tank in a vertical

position, a spreader bar shall be used to prevent damage from
excessive distortion.
11.3.7
If a spreader bar is required for proper lifting, a stenciled notation to

that effect shall be applied to the tank in a prominent location before
shipment.
11.3.8
Woven fabric rigger-slings of 76 mm (3 in) minimum width and

adequate strength shall be used for lifting fiberglass tanks. The slings
Page 32 of 35

32-SAMSS-002
shall be used in direct contact with the tank.

11.3.9
Unpadded chains or cables shall not be wrapped around a fiberglass

tank for lifting.
11.3.10 Lifting cables and/or straps shall not be attached to or permitted to

come in contact with nozzles, flanges, gussets, or accessories other
than lifting lugs.
11.3.11 If a tank is being lifted, a guideline shall be attached to prevent impact
damage caused by swing contact with other objects.
11.4
11.5
Temporary Storage
11.4.1
Fiberglass tanks shall be placed on shipping cradles or dunnage resting

only on firm level surfaces during storage or repositioning.
11.4.2
Tanks shall not be rested on stones, tools, chocks, or other small hard
objects.
11.4.3
If stored outdoors, tanks shall be adequately tied down to prevent

movement from wind or water flotation.
11.4.4
Closed tanks shall not be completely sealed.
11.4.5
If a large open-end tank is stored in a horizontal position, bracing shall

be provided at the open end to prevent excessive distortion. One cross
brace with suitably padded end plates to distribute the load shall be
installed perpendicular to the surface on which the tank is resting.
Shipping Protection
Cylindrical tanks that are being shipped shall be protected in accordance with
the following recommendations:
11.5.1
Tanks shipped horizontally shall be mounted on padded cradles.

These cradle saddles shall have 120 degrees minimum arc and be at
least as wide in inches as the tank measures in feet of diameter.
The cradles shall be placed as close as possible to the top and bottom
heads and/or other stiffened areas of the tank.
11.5.2
Tanks shall be secured to the truck or railcar with padded banding

straps that are properly fastened to the bed of the vehicle. Tanks shall
also be blocked at the ends to prevent shifting in transit. The blocks
shall be padded and bear only on the knuckle radius of the flat or
dished heads.
Page 33 of 35

12
13
32-SAMSS-002
11.5.3
Railcar transportation shall be avoided whenever possible. If railcar

transportation is necessary, a cushioned end car shall be used.
11.5.4
Road trailers shall be of the air ride suspension type.
11.5.5
Tanks being shipped in a vertical position shall be secured to a pallet or

skid, then fastened to the bed of the vehicle with padded banding.
11.5.6
Small tanks being shipped in an enclosed trailer shall be completely

crated with padded blocking between the tank and the inside of the crate.
11.5.7
Tanks shall be secured to the vehicle with 38 mm (1 in) or greater

clearance between the tank (including external fittings, nozzles, and
other projections) and the bed of the truck or railcar.
11.5.8
Small tanks may be shipped on pallets or skids to permit handling by

forklift truck.
11.5.9
If two or more separate units are shipped together, sufficient clearance

shall be provided between units to prevent contact during transit.
Tank Labeling
12.1
The tank number and content shall be painted in both Arabic and English at
180 degree intervals around the tank.
12.2
Marking shall be done with materials containing no substances that would attack
or harmfully affect the tank at both ambient and operating temperature.
Documentation
13.1
The Tank Manufacturer shall prepare drawings, calculations, and data in

accordance with Form SA NMR-7918-1, Non-Material Requirements.
13.2
Drawings and calculations that are approved by the Design Engineer shall not
relieve the Tank Manufacturer of the responsibility to comply with the relevant
industry standard and this specification.
13.3
All approved tank data sheets, drawings and forms shall be submitted to
Engineering Drawings Services Division (EDSD) for inclusion into Corporate
Drawings Management System.
13 December 2011
Revision Summary
New Saudi Aramco Materials System Specification.
Page 34 of 35

32-SAMSS-002
Appendix A Flowchart for Material Selection Criteria and Qualification Testing
Page 35 of 35

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Materials System Specification

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

Conflicts and Deviations................................ 3

Inspection and Testing................................ 22

Appendix A Flowchart for Material Selection

Previous Issue: New

Next Planned Update: 13 December 2016

Primary contact: Naffaa, Mahmoud Youniss on 966-3-8809614

Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee

This specification defines the minimum mandatory requirements for the

This specification covers cylindrical tanks having internal or external pressure

Combustible products (Hydrocarbons, Alcohols, Alcohol-Gasoline

This specification does not cover the following:

Portable or movable containers.

Tanks constructed of furan or phenolic resins.

Tanks with non-glass structural reinforcements.

Tanks having metallic liners.

In-service storage tanks.

This specification may be attached to and form an integral part of a purchase

Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee

The Tank Manufacturer's proposal shall be based on details for individual

The proposal shall include a detailed description of any exception to the

Conflicts and Deviations

Saudi Aramco References

Instructions for Obtaining a Waiver of a Mandatory

Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards

Hydrostatic Testing Fluids and Lay-Up Procedures

Meteorological and Seismic Design Data

Structural Design Criteria for Non-Building

Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee

Saudi Aramco Materials System Specifications

Qualification Requirements and Application of

Material Specification for the Manufacture of

Saudi Aramco Standard Drawings

Tanks: Fiberglass,according to ASME RTP-1 Saudi

Nonmaterial Requirements for Tanks

Industry Codes and Standards

Venting Atmospheric and Low-Pressure Storage

American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)

Reinforced Thermoset Plastic Corrosion Resistant

Flanges and Flange Fittings Sizes NPS through

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of

Test Method for Compressive Properties of Rigid

Test Methods for Flexural Properties of Unreinforced

Test Method for Indentation Hardness of Rigid

Test Method for Ignition Loss of Cured Reinforced

Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee

Standard Specification for Filament-Wound GlassFiber-Reinforced Polyester Chemical-Resistant

Standard Specification for Contact-Molded GlassFiber-Reinforced Thermoset Resin ChemicalResistant Tanks

Standard Test Method for Surface Burning

American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)

Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other

Process Industry Practices (PIP)

Fixed Metal Ladders and Cages Details

Pipe Railing for Walking and Working Surfaces

Angle Railing for Walking and Working Surfaces

Vessel Platform Details

Fiberglass Tank and Vessel Selection, Design, and

Document Responsibility: Vessels Standards Committee

provide a laminate with a flammability spread not exceeding 25, as measured in

All materials of construction shall be as specified on the tank data sheet.

Qualification testing for raw materials and laminates to be used in manufcature