API Collector

Contents

Introduction

The API modules 653, 510, and 570 are central to ensuring that storage tanks, pressure vessels, and piping systems meet the stringent requirements set forth by the American Petroleum Institute (API). Managing these inspections effectively, especially in remote or challenging locations, requires robust tools designed for the job. Enter the API Collector, an innovative app designed specifically to support field operations in the oil and gas sector.

The API Collector is a purpose-built application available on tablets, tailored to streamline the data collection process during inspections governed by API 653, 510, and 570. One of its standout features is its ability to function offline, making it an invaluable tool for inspectors working in the field, where internet connectivity can be unreliable or entirely absent. This offline capability ensures that inspection data is captured accurately and consistently, regardless of the location, and can be synchronized with the central system once a connection is restored.

Designed with the specific needs of field inspectors in mind, the API Collector offers a comprehensive suite of tools to facilitate the inspection process. It allows users to collect detailed data, including images, notes, and other records, directly on-site. This data can then be seamlessly uploaded to the HUB, the centralized repository where all inspection information is stored and managed. The ability to upload images is particularly beneficial, as it provides visual documentation of the condition of assets, aiding in the accurate assessment and decision-making process.

Demo

The API Collector’s intuitive interface is optimized for tablet use, ensuring that inspectors can easily navigate the app while on the job. Whether it’s filling out inspection forms, recording measurements, or attaching photographic evidence, the app simplifies these tasks, reducing the time spent on data entry and minimizing the potential for errors. The the ability to work offline means that inspectors are not limited by the availability of a network connection, allowing them to focus entirely on the inspection process without interruption.

How-to-Guide

Getting Started

To start using the API Collector, follow these steps:

Installation & Setup

Download the App: The API Collector is available for tablets running Windows or Android.
Login & Authentication: Enter your credentials to access inspection reports and stored data.
Select Inspection Type: Choose between API 653, 510, or 570 based on the equipment being inspected.

Logging In

Online Mode

Once the application is launched, users can log in using the same credentials as the Pipeline Toolbox HUB.
The system will authenticate user access and ensure that only authorized personnel can use the API Collector.
The license verification process can be completed with the support engineer if needed.

Offline Mode

Users can utilize the application without logging in, but access is restricted to visualizing and creating reports.
The API Collector supports offline data collection, ensuring that inspections can continue uninterrupted in areas with poor or no connectivity.
Data is stored locally and will automatically synchronize with the HUB once an internet connection is available.

Home Page

User Profile Section

Displays the inspector’s name and employer information.
Users can upload a company logo by clicking on the “Add Photo” button.
Ensures that all reports are correctly attributed to the respective inspector.

Report Status Overview

Provides a visual breakdown of reports in progress, completed, or pending upload.
A circular progress chart displays the percentage of synced reports for quick reference.
Breakdown of report status includes:
- Completed Uploads: The number of reports successfully uploaded to the HUB.
- Reports Ready for Upload: Reports that have been finalized but not yet synced.
- Total Reports: The total count of all reports stored within the API Collector.

Status Indicator

The top right of the screen displays the current connectivity status:
- Green Dot (Online): Indicates an active internet connection for syncing reports.
- Gray or Red Dot (Offline): Denotes offline mode, meaning reports will be stored locally until the connection is restored.

Upload Reports Button

Allows users to manually sync completed reports with the HUB when an internet connection is available.
Ensures that all finalized reports are properly stored and backed up in the system.

Uploading & Syncing Reports

Report List Overview

The Report List provides a comprehensive view of all reports created within the API Collector, categorized by API standard: 653, 510, and 570.
Users can filter reports using the search bar or by selecting a specific API type.
The status column indicates whether a report has been recently updated, is ready for upload, or has already been uploaded.

Uploading Reports to the HUB

Once internet access is available, users can upload reports to the HUB directly from the Report List page.
Uploaded reports undergo review and compliance checks to ensure accuracy before being finalized.
Reports can also be uploaded during the report building process within individual API modules.

Report Status Indicators

Uploaded: The report has been successfully synced to the HUB.
Ready to Upload: The report is complete and awaiting upload.
Recently Updated: The report has been modified but not yet uploaded.

Bulk Upload and Management

Users can select multiple reports and remove them or upload them in batches for efficiency.
The Remove Selected button enables users to delete unnecessary reports.

Syncing Data Across Devices

If the user has been working offline, all collected data will be stored locally until an internet connection is restored.Upon reconnection, reports can be synchronized with the HUB, ensuring no data is lost.

Select Report type

The “New Report” tab initiates the inspection process for three key API standards: API 653, API 510, and API 570. This section enables inspectors to select the appropriate report type based on the specific asset being evaluated, ensuring compliance with the relevant industry standards.

API Report Types

API 653 – Storage Tanks
- Designed for aboveground storage tank inspections.
- Ensures compliance with API 653 standards, covering corrosion assessments, structural integrity, and repairs.
- Used for inspections related to tank bottom thickness, settlement evaluation, and shell conditions.
API 510 – Pressure Vessels
- Used for pressure vessel inspections, ensuring compliance with API 510 standards.
- Covers wall thickness assessments, weld integrity, and fitness-for-service evaluations.
- Focuses on vessels subject to internal pressure, external loads, and operational stress.
API 570 – Piping Systems
- Developed for piping system inspections in compliance with API 570 regulations.
- Evaluates corrosion rates, remaining life, and structural integrity of process piping.
- Essential for maintaining safe and efficient pipeline operations.

API 653

Base Page Section

The Base Page is the foundational step in the API 653 report-building process. This section allows inspectors to input critical company, client, and asset data related to storage tank inspections. The base page ensures that essential details are captured accurately, forming the backbone of the entire report.

The Base Page consists of three primary sections:

Company / Client Data
Tank Data
Thickness Readings & Additional Information

Each section plays a crucial role in structuring the inspection report and ensuring that all necessary details are recorded efficiently.

Company / Client Data

This section contains the fundamental identification details of the inspection, including:

Report Number – A unique identifier assigned to each inspection report.
Client Name – The company or entity requesting the inspection.
Age (Year) – The number of years since the tank was first put into service.
Inspection Date – The date of the current inspection.
Equipment ID – A unique identifier or serial number assigned to the specific tank.
City / State – The location where the inspection is being conducted.
Report Type – This field automatically populates as API 653, indicating the type of inspection being performed.
Cover Image – Inspectors can add or remove a photo for better identification and reference.

This section ensures that every API 653 report is correctly labeled and associated with the right client and equipment, streamlining documentation and future reference.

Tank Data

The Tank Data section captures comprehensive details about the storage tank being inspected. These details are essential for evaluating compliance with API 653 standards.

Key fields include:

Capacity Type & Capacity – Specifies the unit (e.g., gallons) and the maximum volume the tank can hold.
Service – Describes the type of fluid or product stored in the tank.
Construction Code – Identifies the construction standard used, commonly API 650 for aboveground storage tanks.
Shell Construction – Indicates how the shell is built, such as butt-welded.
Foundation – Specifies the type of foundation, e.g., concrete, that the tank is supported on.
Roof Type – Describes the tank roof structure, such as Fixed/Cone.
Operating & Local Mean Temperatures – Captures both the operating and local environmental temperatures in degrees Fahrenheit (°F).
Design Temperature – The maximum temperature the tank was designed to withstand safely.
Plate Specification – Defines the material specification for the tank’s plates, such as A 283M C.
Nominal Diameter / Width – The diameter of the tank in feet.
Height / Length – The overall height of the tank.
Safe Fill Height – The maximum level to which the tank can be safely filled without risk of overflow.
Corrosion Allowance (inch) – The additional material thickness included in the design to compensate for future corrosion loss.
Joint Efficiency (E) – Represents the efficiency factor of welded joints based on construction year and type of joint used.
Manufacturer – Identifies the tank’s manufacturer.
Specific Gravity (SG) – Defines the density of the stored liquid relative to water (e.g., 0.79 – Acetone).
Insulation Type – Specifies if insulation is used, such as None or other materials.
NDE Methods – Lists the Non-Destructive Examination (NDE) techniques used for inspection.
Year Built – Records the year the tank was originally constructed.
Type of Inspection (In-Service/Out-of-Service) – Specifies whether the inspection is being performed while the tank is in operation or offline.

This section ensures that all relevant physical and structural details of the tank are properly documented, forming the basis for further inspection calculations.

Thickness Readings

The thickness readings section allows inspectors to record measured thickness values at multiple points on the tank structure, including:

Crs 1 to Crs 8 – Corrosion readings taken at different critical points around the tank.
Roof / End 1 & Floor / End 2 – Thickness readings specifically for the tank roof and floor components.

User Actions and Navigation

Save Data: Always click the “Save” button before navigating away to ensure that all entered information is stored securely.
Clear Fields: The “Clear Fields” button allows users to reset the form and remove all entered data if needed.
Upload to HUB: Once the base page is completed, users can click “Upload” to sync the report to the HUB when an internet connection is available.
Navigation Shortcuts: The top navigation bar provides direct access to other sections, including Write-Up, TML Records, Checklists, Forms, and Calculations.

Write-Up Section

The Write-Up section is a crucial part of the API 653 report, allowing inspectors to record detailed observations and recommendations for various storage tank components. This section is designed to provide structured and comprehensive reporting while improving efficiency through voice-to-text functionality, unlimited image capture, and offline capabilities.

The Write-Up section is divided into multiple component-specific categories, making it easy for inspectors to input data for specific areas of the tank system. The available sections include:

Foundation
Shells
Nozzles
Roof
Floor
Ancillary Components
Other Findings
Ultrasonic Testing (UT) Results
Executive Summary

Quick Navigation Using Top Icons

At the top of the Write-Up section, there are shortcut icons representing each category. Clicking on any icon allows the user to jump directly to that specific section without having to scroll through the entire form. This feature improves efficiency and streamlines the inspection process.

Key Features of the Write-Up Section

Unlimited Image Capture & Annotation

To enhance documentation, the Write-Up section supports unlimited image uploads for each component.

Image Sources: Inspectors can either select images from the gallery or capture photos instantly using the tablet’s camera.
Customization: Each image can be renamed and provided with a detailed description to clarify its significance.
Unlimited Uploads: There is no restriction on the number of images that can be added per section, ensuring thorough visual documentation.

Voice-to-Text Feature

For faster and more efficient documentation, the Write-Up section supports voice-to-text functionality.

Works Online and Offline: Voice input can be used even in remote locations where internet access is unavailable.
Reduces Manual Data Entry: Instead of typing, inspectors can dictate observations and recommendations, significantly speeding up the process.

Observations & Recommendations Fields

Each section is structured to include default text:

Observations (3.x Series) – Detailed findings on the condition of the tank components.
Recommendations (4.x Series) – Suggested corrective actions based on the observations.

Each section features a dedicated clear icon that allows users to instantly remove all default text, providing a clean slate for customized input.

User Actions and Navigation

Save Data: Click the “Save” button to store all observations, recommendations, and edits before exiting the Write-Up section.
Clear Default Text: Each section has a “Clear” icon, allowing users to remove default text and input custom observations.
Voice-to-Text Feature: Users can dictate their findings instead of typing, improving efficiency in both online and offline modes.
Image Capture & Upload: Each section allows for unlimited image attachments, either captured instantly or selected from the gallery. Users can rename and add descriptions to each image.
Navigation Shortcuts: The tabbed sections at the top enable quick movement between Foundation, Shells, Nozzles, Roof, Floor, Ancillary, Other, UT Results, and Executive Summary.

TML Records Section

The TML (Thickness Measurement Location) Records section in the API 653 Report provides a structured format for recording thickness measurements of components and nozzles. This section is crucial for tracking corrosion rates and determining remaining life assessments based on past and current readings.

The TML Records interface is divided into two primary categories:

AST Component TML Records: For tracking thickness data on storage tank components.
AST Nozzle/Pipe TML Records: For recording thickness values specific to nozzles and pipe connections.

AST Component TML Records

This table allows users to input and monitor thickness measurements for tank components. Each row represents a different component, and multiple columns capture different thickness measurements at various points.

Key Features:

Component Identification: Users can specify which tank component is being measured.
TML Location: Indicates where the thickness reading is taken.
Multiple Thickness Data Entries: Up to six different thickness readings (TML1–TML6) can be recorded per component.
Customizable Row Entry: Users can add or remove rows dynamically based on the number of TML locations required.
Expand Rows Feature: A user-defined number of rows can be added simultaneously for batch data entry.

Adding and Managing Rows:

“Add Row”: Inserts a new row to enter additional TML readings.
“Remove Rows”: Deletes selected rows.
“Extend Rows”: Allows bulk row creation for rapid data entry.

AST Nozzle/Pipe TML Records

This section is dedicated to recording thickness measurements specifically for nozzles and pipe connections, which are critical points of potential degradation.

Key Features:

Photo Capture Integration: Each TML entry allows users to attach a reference image for documentation purposes. Images can be captured instantly using the device camera or selected from the gallery.
Component ID and Service Entry: Users can label the nozzle or pipe section with an identifier and note its specific service condition.
Multi-Point Thickness Tracking: Allows for up to four thickness readings per nozzle location (Q1t–Q4t).
Previous Thickness & Minimum Thickness Tracking: Includes fields for Tprev (previous thickness reading), minimum allowable thickness, and component age.
Customizable Rows: Similar to component records, users can dynamically add or remove nozzle thickness data entries.

User Actions and Navigation

Save Data: Click the “Save” button to ensure recorded measurements are stored before leaving the page.
Clear Fields: The “Clear Fields” button allows users to reset the form and remove any entered data.
Upload to HUB: Once all data is collected, users can sync the report to the HUB for cloud storage and further analysis.
Navigation Shortcuts: The TML Records tab is accessible from any other section of the report via the top navigation bar.

Checklists Section

The Checklists section in the API 653 module is designed to ensure thorough documentation of inspection points,

The Checklists section in the API 653 module ensures a comprehensive inspection process for Aboveground Storage Tanks (ASTs). It consists of three distinct checklists, each designed to address different inspection scenarios. Inspectors can systematically verify tank integrity, regulatory compliance, and maintenance needs by marking off key inspection points.

There are three primary types of checklists available:

AST Checklist – In-Service: Used for tanks that remain in operation during the inspection, focusing on active corrosion monitoring, structural integrity, and regulatory compliance.
AST Checklist – Out-of-Service: Applied when a tank is temporarily offline for maintenance or a detailed evaluation, allowing for internal inspections.
Steel Tank Institute AST Inspection: Covers industry-specific best practices and compliance guidelines based on Steel Tank Institute (STI) standards.

Inspectors can toggle between In-Service and Out-of-Service checklists using the selection bar at the top. The system ensures that all critical aspects of the tank’s condition are reviewed before finalizing the report.

Navigation and Saving

Saving Progress: Click the Save button to retain entered data before switching sections.
Clearing Fields: Click Clear Fields to reset checklist inputs.
Uploading the Checklist: Click Upload to sync the completed checklist with the HUB.
Returning to Other Report Sections: Navigate to other sections (Base Page, Write-Up, TML Records) using the top navigation tabs.

Forms Section – Settlement Survey Form

The Forms section in the API 653 report module currently includes the AST Settlement Survey Form, which is used to document tank settlement data. This form enables inspectors to record precise measurements regarding the structural integrity of the tank foundation, helping assess any shifts or deformations over time.

Settlement Survey Record Fields

The Settlement Survey Form consists of various fields designed to capture detailed measurements of the tank and its surrounding foundation:

General Information
- Report No. – Unique identifier for the report.
- Inspector – Name of the inspector conducting the survey.
- Date – The date and time of the survey.
- Client – Name of the client or company commissioning the inspection.
- Tank No. – Identifier for the specific tank being inspected.
Measurement Parameters
- Height (ft) – The total height of the tank.
- Product Level (ft) – The level of the product inside the tank at the time of measurement.
- Diameter (ft) – The measured diameter of the tank.
- Circumference (ft) – The calculated circumference based on the diameter.
- Number of Points – The number of measurement points taken around the tank.
- Distance Between Points (ft) – The spacing between settlement measurement points.

Types of Transit Measurements

The Settlement Survey Form allows inspectors to select the method of transit measurement used for recording settlement data:

Conventional Transit – Manual leveling using traditional surveying equipment.
Laser Transit (Manual Leveling) – A manual laser transit setup that requires the operator to adjust readings manually.
Laser Transit (Automatic Leveling) – An advanced laser transit that automatically levels and records readings.

Survey Guidelines

The system includes built-in survey guidelines to assist inspectors in ensuring accuracy and consistency in measurements:

Point #1 must be located at the center of the highest point along the tank circumference at the base weld of the first course.
Survey points should be calculated to even numbers to best fit the cosine curve.
Distance between points is limited to a maximum of 31.42 feet.
All quadrants of the tank must be included in the measurement process to ensure comprehensive settlement assessment.

Recording Settlement Data

Once the inspector has set up the survey points, the Settlement Survey Record Table enables entry of multiple data points. This table includes:

Points – The number assigned to each measurement location.
Stn 1 – Stn 6 – Readings taken at different measurement stations.
Readings in: – Allows inspectors to specify the unit of measurement (e.g., feet, inches).

Additional rows can be added or removed as necessary to accommodate more data points.

User Actions and Navigation

Saving Progress: Click the Save button to store entered data before navigating away.
Clearing Fields: The Clear Fields button resets all input fields for a fresh entry.
Uploading Data: Once measurements are finalized, click Upload to sync data with the HUB.
Adding Rows: Users can dynamically expand the form by clicking Add Row to accommodate additional survey points.
Navigation: Click on the back arrow at the top-left corner to return to the previous page.

Calculations Section

The Calculations section within the API 653 report module is designed to assist inspectors in performing critical calculations related to tank integrity, thickness evaluations, and structural assessments. This section includes automated formulas that use inputted data from other report sections to generate precise calculations, ensuring compliance with API 653 standards.

To access the Calculations tab, navigate to the API 653 report module and select the Calculations section. This area provides three primary calculation tools, each of which expands upon selection:

Storage Tank Floor Evaluation – Minimum Remaining Thickness (MRT) Calculations
Horizontal Vessel Field Data Sheet
Tank Shell Minimum Thickness Calculations

Each of these tools aids in evaluating key tank parameters to ensure structural reliability and regulatory compliance.

Storage Tank Floor Evaluation – Minimum Remaining Thickness (MRT) Calculations

This tool calculates the minimum remaining thickness of the tank floor based on input thickness measurements, corrosion rates, and previous inspections. The goal is to determine whether the floor can remain in service or if repairs/replacements are required.

Inputs Required:
- Thickness readings from multiple points on the tank floor.
- Corrosion rates from previous inspections.
- Inspection history and remaining life estimation.
Output Generated:
- Computed MRT values indicating whether the floor meets minimum thickness requirements.
- Recommendations for continued use, repair, or replacement based on API 653 standards.

Horizontal Vessel Field Data Sheet

This tool helps inspectors document and calculate key data points for horizontal storage vessels, including:

Tank dimensions
Thickness measurements
Operating pressure and temperature

These calculations help inspectors assess vessel safety, ensure compliance, and determine if structural reinforcements are required.

Tank Shell Minimum Thickness Calculations

The Tank Shell Minimum Thickness Calculation tool assesses the integrity of the tank shell by determining:

The minimum required thickness based on service conditions and applied stress.
Corrosion rates and expected lifespan before maintenance is required.
Inputs Required:
- Shell thickness readings from various elevations.
- Design pressure and temperature.
- Corrosion allowance and past inspection data.
Output Generated:
- Minimum allowable thickness based on API 653 formulas.
- Predicted remaining service life.

User Actions and Navigation

Performing Calculations: Users can enter or update relevant data, and the system will auto-calculate based on API formulas.
Saving Progress: Always click the Save button to store calculation results.
Clearing Fields: The Clear Fields button resets any entered values for fresh input.
Uploading Results: Once calculations are finalized, click Upload to sync data with the HUB.
Navigation: Click the back arrow at the top-left to return to the report section or access other calculations.

Finalizing and Uploading

Once all required data has been entered and calculations have been completed, the final step is to save and upload the report to the HUB. This process ensures that inspection results are securely stored, accessible for review, and available for compliance checks.

Saving Your Report

Before uploading, users should save their report to prevent any data loss. Click on the Save button located at the top-right corner of the screen to ensure all entered values, images, and calculations are stored.

Tip: If the device is offline, the report will be saved locally and can be uploaded once an internet connection is restored.

Uploading to the HUB

After saving the report, users can proceed with uploading the final version to the HUB.

Log in to the application if not already signed in.
Click on the Upload button at the top-right of the screen.
A confirmation pop-up will appear, displaying a unique ID number attached to the report. This serves as a reference for tracking and retrieval.
The system will automatically sync the uploaded report with the HUB, making it available for review.

Verifying Report Status in the Report List Tab

After uploading, navigate to the Report List tab to confirm that the report has been successfully submitted.

The report status will be updated to reflect its current state (e.g., Uploaded, Pending Review, or Approved).
Users can search for the report using the ID number generated during the upload process.

This finalization step ensures that all API 653 inspection reports are accurate, properly stored, and ready for compliance verification.