Course Details

Objective

By the end of the course, participants will be able to understand

• Understand the fundamentals of hydrocarbon storage tank operations and their importance in the oil and gas value chain.
• Perform accurate sampling and laboratory testing for hydrocarbon quality assurance.
• Apply international standards (e.g., API, ASTM, ISO) to laboratory operations and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Troubleshoot common operational and quality issues, including contamination, water intrusion, and sludge formation.
• Utilize data from laboratory tests to optimize storage operations and product quality.

Content

Day 1: Introduction to Hydrocarbon Storage and Laboratory Operations

• Overview of Hydrocarbon Storage Tanks
  • Types of hydrocarbon storage tanks (fixed roof, floating roof, spherical tanks, etc.)
  • Safety considerations and industry standards (API, ASTM, OSHA regulations)
  • Importance of laboratory operations in storage tank management
• Fundamentals of Laboratory Analysis
  • Role of the laboratory in maintaining product quality and operational safety
  • Basic laboratory equipment and techniques
  • Laboratory safety protocols and risk assessment

Day 2: Sampling Techniques and Handling Procedures

• Sampling Methods
  • Types of samples (composite, spot, bottom, etc.)
  • Best practices for sampling hydrocarbon storage tanks
  • Equipment for manual and automated sampling
• Sample Handling and Storage
  • Preserving sample integrity during transportation and storage
  • Avoiding contamination and degradation of hydrocarbons
  • Regulatory and documentation requirements

Day 3: Laboratory Testing Methods for Hydrocarbons

• Physical Property Testing
  • Density, API gravity, and viscosity measurements
  • Flash point, pour point, and cloud point determination
• Chemical Composition Analysis
  • Sulfur content, water content, and sediment testing
  • Gas chromatography and spectrometry for hydrocarbon profiling

Day 4: Quality Control and Standards

• Quality Assurance in Hydrocarbon Storage
  • Role of standards (ASTM, ISO) in quality control
  • Understanding product specifications and acceptance criteria
• Troubleshooting and Operational Challenges
  • Identifying contamination, degradation, or other quality issues
  • Mitigating tank-bottom sludge and water accumulation

Day 5: Reporting, Interpretation, and Best Practices

•  Data Analysis and Reporting
  • Recording and interpreting laboratory results
  • Preparing actionable reports for operational teams
• Best Practices and Emerging Technologies
  • Automation and digitization in laboratory operations
  • Case studies and discussions on improving operational efficiency
  • Wrap-up, Q&A, and certification (if applicable)

NOTE:

Pre-& Post Tests will be conducted.

Case Studies, Group Exercises, Group Discussions, Last Day reviews, and assessments will be carried out.

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Methodology

A highly interactive combination of lectures and discussion sessions will be managed to maximize the amount and quality of information and knowledge transfer. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. You will also be encouraged to raise your own questions and to share in the development of the right answers using your own analysis and experiences.  Tests of multiple-choice type will be made available on daily basis to examine the effectiveness of delivering the course.

Very useful Course Materials will be given.

• 30% Lectures
• 30% Workshops and work presentation
• 20% Group Work& Practical Exercises
• 20% Videos& General Discussions