If a new bottom is installed in an AST through existing tombstone reinforcing plates, how should the splice weld be examined?

If a new bottom is installed in an AST through existing tombstone reinforcing plates, how should the splice weld be examined?

• A. Visually examined only
• B. Magnetic particle examined only
• C. Liquid penetrate examined only
• D. Ultrasonic shear wave examined only

Answer: (B)

The splice weld in an aboveground storage tank (AST) where a new bottom is installed through existing tombstone reinforcing plates should undergo magnetic particle examination. This method is particularly effective for detecting surface and near-surface discontinuities in ferromagnetic materials, which is likely the case for the components involved in the weld. Magnetic particle testing is suitable in this situation because it can reveal defects such as cracks or inclusions that may compromise the integrity of the weld connection between the new bottom and the existing structure. Since the weld is critical to ensuring the structural soundness and preventing potential leaks, using this non-destructive testing method provides a reliable assessment of the weld quality. Other methods, while useful in different contexts, would not be as appropriate for this particular application. Visual examination alone may overlook sub-surface flaws, while liquid penetrant testing, although effective for identifying surface defects, may not be as comprehensive in assessing the quality of a weld in a pressurized or potentially hazardous environment. Ultrasonic shear wave examination can be more complex and may not be necessary unless there is a specific concern regarding thickness or internal flaws.

The splice weld in an aboveground storage tank (AST) where a new bottom is installed through existing tombstone reinforcing plates should undergo magnetic particle examination. This method is particularly effective for detecting surface and near-surface discontinuities in ferromagnetic materials, which is likely the case for the components involved in the weld.

Magnetic particle testing is suitable in this situation because it can reveal defects such as cracks or inclusions that may compromise the integrity of the weld connection between the new bottom and the existing structure. Since the weld is critical to ensuring the structural soundness and preventing potential leaks, using this non-destructive testing method provides a reliable assessment of the weld quality.

Other methods, while useful in different contexts, would not be as appropriate for this particular application. Visual examination alone may overlook sub-surface flaws, while liquid penetrant testing, although effective for identifying surface defects, may not be as comprehensive in assessing the quality of a weld in a pressurized or potentially hazardous environment. Ultrasonic shear wave examination can be more complex and may not be necessary unless there is a specific concern regarding thickness or internal flaws.