Co-Author: Eng. Jose Gabriel Caprarulo

Professional with more than 30 years of experience in Mechanical Integrity in the Oil & Gas sector, accredited with key certifications API 653, API 510, and API 570 for the inspection of tanks, pressure vessels, and piping. His expertise extends to specialized inspection of welding and metallurgy (AWS, API 577), corrosion and coatings control (Corrosion Technologist NACE, AMPP Level 2), and advanced non-destructive testing (Digital Radiography RT-D Nivel 2), guaranteeing the operational reliability of critical assets.

Introduction to the Topic and the Regulatory Context

Operational safety and environmental protection are fundamental pillars for companies that manage hydrocarbon storage. Aboveground Hydrocarbon Storage Tanks (TAAH) represent a critical component in the energy chain, and the potential magnitude of a failure demands rigorous and updated integrity management.

Aware of this responsibility and seeking to align the Argentine regulatory framework with the most demanding global standards, the Secretariat of Energy has issued Resolution 277/25 (which replaces the previous 785/2005). This new regulation establishes a radical change in the way operators must approach the integrity management of their TAAH.

Key Changes Introduced by RES 277/25

Resolution 277/25 not only updates the requirements, but transforms the control methodology, making the adoption of the best international practices mandatory:

1. New Scope of Application: The regulation is now mandatory for operators with individual tanks starting from 50 m³, or for terminals or plants whose total storage capacity exceeds 100 m³.
2. Mandatory Adoption of the API 653 Standard: The scheme of pre-established «deterministic» inspections and tests is abandoned. The new inspection plans must be carried out under the guidelines of the API 653 (“Inspection, Repair, Alteration, and Reconstruction of aboveground steel storage Tanks”), the most recognized international standard. These plans must be supervised and signed by an API 653 Certified Inspector.
3. Creation of the National TAAH Registry: The «National Registry of Aboveground Hydrocarbon and Petroleum Derivative Storage Tanks» is formally established, a milestone in the centralization and control of information for the national tank fleet.
4. Modernization of Controls: The requirement for audits through Universities is eliminated, migrating to a system of Sworn Statements issued by inspectors certified under the API 653 standard, streamlining and professionalizing the compliance process.

Integration of Advanced Methodologies: Risk-Based Inspection (RBI)

A crucial point enabled by API 653 is the possibility of optimizing inspection frequencies. The standard, in its Section 6, allows these frequencies to be modified through a Risk-Based Inspection (RBI) Analysis, following the guidelines of API 580 and API 581.

RBI analyses are performed under the requirements of API 580, while the particular detail of risk level calculations, determination of corrosion rates and inspection effectiveness are based on API RP 581. This standard establishes a particular RBI methodology for Storage Tanks designed under API 650 and 620. The RBI methodology allows for:

• Analyze the particular design and operating conditions of each tank.
• Determine corrosion rates.
• Calculate the Probability of Failure and Consequence Analysis.
• Prioritize integrity management based on the criticality and real risk of each component (especially complex tank bottoms).

The transition to RES 277/25 implies a key re-adaptation for operators, as it is essential to update management plans and relevant registrations to maintain operational validity and regulatory compliance.

GIE GROUP: Your Strategic Partner for Integrity Management under RES 277/25

In this context of regulatory change and the need for technical precision, GIE GROUP is positioned as the ideal ally to ensure compliance and optimization of your assets.

We present our service:

«Comprehensive Integrity Management of Hydrocarbon Storage Tanks, under Resolution 277/25»

Custom-designed for TAAH operators in Argentina, our service not only guarantees adaptation to the new resolution, but also optimizes the management of your assets through consolidated experience.

Why choose GIE GROUP?

• Global and Deep Experience: We have been applying API standards for 30 years, which gives us thorough knowledge of their requirements and specificities.
• High-Level Certified Team: We have a permanent roster of more than 12 API 653 / 570 / 510 certified inspectors.
• Comprehensive Capability: Our team includes more than 100 engineering professionals with experience in Integrity Management, Corrosion, Cathodic Protection, Inspections, and Tests, with offices in various locations across Latin America, providing diversified regional experience.
• Optimization by RBI: We advise on the comprehensive management of your entire tank fleet, using RBI methodologies (API 580/581) to analyze risks and establish a comprehensive management plan that prioritizes actions according to the criticality of each asset.

With GIE GROUP, ensure compliance with RES 277/25, optimize your inspection plans, and strengthen the operational safety of your Aboveground Hydrocarbon Storage Tanks.