GLOSSARY

A
ACT-100®: (See STI F894).

ACT-100-U®: (See STI F961).

American Petroleum Institute (API): A petroleum industry trade association of integrated oil
companies which, among other things, publishes recommended practices on tank installation and
various related topics, with particular focus on field-erected aboveground storage tanks.

API RP 12R Setting, Maintenance, Inspection, Operation and Repair of Tanks in

Production Service
API 570 Piping Inspection Code: Inspection, Repair, alteration and Re-rating of In-
Service Piping Systems
API RP 575 Inspection of Atmospheric & Low Pressure Storage Tanks
API RP 579 Fitness-For-Service
API 653 Tank Inspection, Repair, Alteration and Reconstruction
API RP 1604 Closure of Underground Petroleum Storage Tanks
API RP 1615 Installation of Underground Petroleum Storage Systems
API RP 1621 Bulk Liquid Stock Control at Retail Outlets
API Publication 1628 A Guide to the Assessment and Remediation of Underground
Petroleum Releases
API RP 1631 Interior Lining of Underground Storage Tanks
API RP 1632 Cathodic Protection of Underground Petroleum Storage Tanks and Piping
Systems
API RP 1637 Using the API Color-Symbol System to Mark Equipment and Vehicles for
Product Identification at Service Stations and Distribution Terminals

American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM): An organization involved in setting design
and test standards for materials and processes.

Anodes: (See Cathodic Protection).

Anti-Siphon Valve: A valve which prevents liquid from accidentally flowing out of the tank,
needed when the liquid level in the tank is higher than the elevation of the dispenser or any of the
product piping. An anti-siphon valve is designed to remain in a closed position except when some
positive action (such as turning on a pump) is taken. Some anti-siphon valves operate on the
solenoid principle while others are spring-loaded check valves. (See Solenoid Valve).

AquaSweep™ : A UL 2215 listed, gravity oil water separator technology developed by the Steel
Tank Institute (STI) that uses gravity for removing solids, and non-emulsified oils from storm
water runoff. STI is currently developing a standard for this technology.

Atmospheric Venting: (See Normal Venting).

Automatic Tank Gauge: (See Level Gauge).

Copyright © 2001 by Steel Tank Institute, 570 Oakwood Drive, Lake Zurich, Illinois 60047. All rights reserved.
B
Backfill: Material used to fill the excavation around an underground storage tank or the piping
system, generally pea gravel, crushed rock, or sand.

Ballistics Protection: A method of tank construction in which the tank system has a tested ability
to resist penetration of small arms fire into the inner tank. The ballistics test must be conducted in
accordance with recognized codes.

Block Valve: Any type of valve used to close off product flow through a product line or out of a
tank, often locked in either the closed or open position to prevent tampering.

Building Officials and Code Administrators (BOCA): An organization that develops and
publishes the National Building Code and National Fire Code, used primarily in the Midwest and
northeastern United States, pertaining to storage and dispensing of flammable and combustible
liquids. BOCA no longer updates the National Codes, but continues to administratively support
them. Instead, BOCA endorses and helps develop the International Codes through the
International Code Council (ICC). Always check with local officials to determine which edition
of the building or fire code they have adopted, and whether additional modifications, amendments
or restrictions apply.

C
Cathodic Protection: A method of protecting steel tanks and piping from corrosion. Two
methods are utilized: (1) Sacrificial anodes, generally of magnesium or zinc, “sacrifice”
themselves to protect the steel tanks or piping; (2) Impressed current cathodic protection systems
utilize a rectifier to convert AC to DC electricity and channels (impresses) the current to anodes
buried near the tanks and/or piping system to be protected.

Check Valve: Check valves are used to hold the fuel line prime in suction systems, “checking"
the backward flow of product when a pump is turned off. (See Foot Valve).

Compartment: (See Tank Compartment)

Composite Tank: A steel underground tank to which a laminate of fiberglass reinforced plastic
(FRP) has been directly applied to the exterior. The FRP coating provides a corrosion-resistant
barrier between he tank and surrounding soil and backfill.

Consumer Pump: (See Electric Consumer Pump).

Containment Sump: A liquid-tight compartment which would provide containment of any

product spills, typically used underneath product dispensers and/or enclosing the turbine pump
and piping connections at the top of an underground storage tank. In AST applications, piping
containment sumps are commonly used where piping enters from above-grade and continues
underground.

D
Deadman Anchors: Concrete beams used to anchor the underground storage tank to help prevent
it from floating in the event of a high water level in the excavation. Two beams, running the

Copyright © 2001 by Steel Tank Institute, 570 Oakwood Drive, Lake Zurich, Illinois 60047. All rights reserved.
length of the tank, are situated on the excavation bottom and connected with straps running across
the top of the tank. The weight of the backfill material over the deadmen provides additional
anchoring.

Deadman Control Valve: A device for dispensing fuel that requires continuous positive action
by a person to permit discharge. It is always the last valve in a dispensing system.

Diking: An area built around an aboveground storage tank that would contain the contents of the
storage tank in the event of leakage. Diking may be of earthen materials, concrete or steel. Diking
is generally not required for Fireguard tanks, but this is subject to applicable fire and building
codes and environmental regulations.

Dispenser: A device that discharges liquid fuel from the storage tank into the motor vehicle or
equipment tank, while simultaneously measuring the amount dispensed. Commonly referred to
as the “pump” or “gas pump”. The dispenser can be located adjacent to the tank or remote from
the tank. If located adjacent to and aboveground tank, the dispenser can be top-mounted, or side-
mounted (normally at one end). Dispensers can operate by pressure, suction or gravity.

E
Electric Consumer Pump: An electrically operated pump typically used for low-volume filling
(containers, off-road vehicles, etc.).

Emergency Breakaway Device: A device installed in the dispenser hose which is designed to
shear and stop the flow of product in the event of a hose-break (caused, for example, by a drive-
off).

Emergency Relief Vent: (See Primary Tank Emergency Vent and Secondary Containment
Emergency Vent).

Emergency Shut-Off Device: A manually operated switch that shuts off electrical power to the
fuel dispenser in the event of emergency. This device should be clearly identified with signage
and located in an accessible location. Check with local codes for minimum and maximum
separation distances.

Emergency Shut-Off Valve: (See Vacuum-Actuated Shut-Off Valve).

Extractor Fitting: A fitting which allows a component, such as a foot valve or float vent valve to
be easily removed for repair or replacement. The assembly generally includes a riser pipe
extending from the top of the tank to grade level to allow easy access to the fitting itself.

F
Federal Register 40 CFR, Parts 280 & 281: The equipment and financial responsibility
requirements for underground storage tanks in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR).

Fill: The means for delivering fuel to the storage tank. Fill devices and equipment can be located
adjacent to the tank or remote from the tank. If located adjacent to an aboveground tank, the
dispenser can be top-mounted, or side-mounted (normally at one end). Fill devices can operate by
pressure, suction or gravity.

Copyright © 2001 by Steel Tank Institute, 570 Oakwood Drive, Lake Zurich, Illinois 60047. All rights reserved.
Fill Cap: The cap, often lockable, which covers the top of the fill pipe.

Fill Pipe (Drop Tube): The pipe through which the tank is filled, generally extending to within 6
inches of the tank bottom.

Fireguard: (See STI F941).

Flameshield: (See STI F001).

Flexible Piping: Piping constructed of flexible material that is typically installed in one
continuous run with the only joints typically at each end of the piping run. Potential underground
leakage from joints is thus eliminated.

Foot Valve: A check valve located at the lower end (foot) of the suction pipe inside the tank.
(See Check Valve).

Foot Valve Extractor: (See Extractor Fittings).

Fuel Oil Assembly: An assembly comprising piping, valves, fittings and other components
allowing fuel oil to be withdrawn from a storage tank into, for example, a boiler.

G
Gen-Tank: A low-profile, rectangular, UL listed Special Purpose tank technology developed by
the Steel Tank Institute (STI) for storing diesel fuel for emergency power generators. The tank
design is capable of supporting the structural loads of the power generator equipment mounted to
it. The technology is available in protected, fire-resistant, double-wall and single-wall
configurations. STI is currently developing a standard for this technology.

Grounding Reel: A wire and retrieving device for electrically connecting a fueling truck to the
tank, for the purpose of discharging any static electricity between the two. The use of a grounding
reel prevents static electric sparks that could occur during fill operations.

H
Hold-down Pad & Straps: A pad of reinforced concrete on top of which rests an underground
storage tank, which is fastened to the pad via connecting straps. This system provides additional
weight to a tank and helps prevent it from floating in the event of a high water level in the
excavation. The Steel Tank Institute publishes R891-91, Recommended Practice for Hold Down
Strap Isolation.

Hose Retractor: An assembly that holds the dispenser fueling hose off the ground by various
means such as retracting counterweights. Stage II Vapor Recovery hoses, in particular, should be
prevented from dragging on the ground via a hose retractor.

Hose Stream Resistance: A method of tank construction in which the tank system has a tested
ability to withstand a hose stream test immediately after the fire test. The hose stream test must be
conducted in accordance with recognized codes.

Copyright © 2001 by Steel Tank Institute, 570 Oakwood Drive, Lake Zurich, Illinois 60047. All rights reserved.
I
Impact Resistance: A method of tank construction in which the tank system has a tested ability
to resist heavy vehicle impact. The impact resistance test must be conducted in accordance with
recognized codes.

Inlet Strainer: A screen or other device place or mounted into the fill opening that collects
sediment and other debris and prevents it from entering the tank during fill operations.

Integral Secondary Containment: Secondary containment that is connected to the primary tank
so as to comprise an integral unit.

International Code Council (ICC): A nonprofit association composed of the three US model
code organizations (BOCA, ICBO and SBCCI) that develops and publishes the International Fire
Code.

International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO): An organization that develops and

publishes the Uniform Building Code and fire codes, used primarily in the western United States,
pertaining to storage and dispensing of flammable and combustible liquids. ICBO no longer
updates the Uniform Codes, but continues to administratively support them. Instead, ICBO
endorses and helps develop the International Codes through the International Code Council
(ICC). Always check with local officials to determine which edition of the building or fire code
they have adopted, and whether additional modifications, amendments or restrictions apply.

International Fire Code (IFC): A national fire code adopted by several states, which includes
technical guidelines for use in installing and maintaining underground and aboveground storage
tanks. The International Code Council (ICC) publishes the International Fire Code in cooperation
with BOCA, ICBO and SBCCI. Always check with local officials to determine which edition of
the building or fire code they have adopted, and whether additional modifications, amendments or
restrictions apply.

International Fire Code Institute (IFCI): A nonprofit association composed of fire safety
officials and affected industry interests that develops and published the Uniform Fire Code
(UFC). IFCI has transferred the continued maintenance of the Uniform Fire Code to the National
Fire Protection Association (NFPA). (See Uniform Fire Code).

Interstitial Liquid Monitor: A probe or sensor placed within the space between the inner and
outer walls of a double wall tank, usually at the lowest point, that detects the presence of water or
product within the space. The sensor is connected to a warning device that alerts the operator
when liquid is detected.

Interstitial Space: The space between the inner and outer walls of a double wall tank or a
secondary containment system. Also called "annular" space.

Inventory Control: (See Level Gauge).

Isolation Valve: Any valve place in the fill or dispensing piping to shut off the flow of fluid.
Isolation valves are used to prevent flow of fuel into or out of the tank during maintenance and
other operations.

Copyright © 2001 by Steel Tank Institute, 570 Oakwood Drive, Lake Zurich, Illinois 60047. All rights reserved.
J
Jacketed Tank: A steel underground tank to which an outer shell of fiberglass reinforced plastic
(FRP) has been applied to the exterior. The FRP outer shell is prevented from adhering to the
inner tank by a separation or stand-off material that also helps create the interstice between the
tank and shell. The FRP shell provides corrosion protection for the inner steel tank, and also
serves as secondary containment.

K
Key/Card Fuel Management Control System: A fuel dispensing system that is accessed by
authorized users via a key or a card. A key system is controlled by a special key inserted into the
pump control by authorized drivers, while a card system is controlled via coded cards. Both
systems are commonly used by private fleets to both control dispensing access as well as to
generate management reports such as individual fuel usage reports by vehicle and/or driver. (Also
referred to as “keylock” or “cardlock” systems.)

L
Leak Detection of Interstice: Means of detecting liquid in the interstice (annular) of a
secondarily contained or double-wall tank.

Level Alarm: An alarm system, either mechanical or electronic, which provides a means to
monitor the product level within a storage tank. An audible and/or visual alarm is actuated when a
predetermined level is reached or when the level has substantially dropped when it should have
remained constant. Level alarms may be incorporated into the level gauge (or inventory control)
system.

Liquid Level Gauge (Inventory Control): A system, either mechanical or electronic, which
provides a means of gauging the product level within a storage tank. Certain level gauge systems
also incorporate level alarms.

Low-Mounted Pump: A fueling dispenser or pump which is mounted near ground level, as
opposed to directly on top of the tank.

M
Manway: An access entry to a storage tank that allows internal inspection of the tank, large
enough to accommodate complete or partial entry by a person.

Mechanical Level Gauge: (See Level Gauge).

Monitoring Point: The point within the interstice where a leak detection monitor is installed.

Monolithic Thermal Insulation: The insulation material in a Fireguard tank used to minimize
heat transfer from the outer tank to the inner tank. This insulation material is a pourable material
consisting of perlite, cement and water, amongst other additives, all carefully mixed to the correct
proportions.

Copyright © 2001 by Steel Tank Institute, 570 Oakwood Drive, Lake Zurich, Illinois 60047. All rights reserved.
NACE International: Formerly the National Association of Corrosion Engineers, an
organization which develops recommended practices pertaining to the design and installation of
cathodic protection systems for tanks and piping.

NACE RP 01-69 Control of External Corrosion on Submerged Metallic Piping Systems

NACE RP 02-85 Control of External Corrosion on Metallic Buried, Partially Buried,
and Submerged Liquid Storage Systems Cathodic Protection of Underground Petroleum
Storage Tanks and Piping Systems
NACE Recommended Practice External Cathodic Protection of On-Grade Metallic
Storage Tank Bottoms

National Electrical Code: (See NFPA 70).

National Fire Code (US): A national fire code adopted by many states (particularly in the
Midwest and northeastern portion of the US), which includes technical guidelines for use in
installing and maintaining underground storage tanks. The Building Officials and Code
Administrators (BOCA) has stopped further development of the National Fire Code in favor of
the International Fire Code published by the International Code Council (ICC). Always check
with local officials to determine which fire code is adopted and whether additional modifications,
amendments or restrictions apply.

National Fire Code of Canada (NFC): Establishes a satisfactory standard for fire prevention,
containment, and suppression of fires which may present a hazard to a community. The NFC also
sets standards for the storage and handling of dangerous goods, flammable, and combustible
liquids. The NFC and the National Building Code of Canada (NBC) are companion documents
established and reviewed by the Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes. NFC fire
codes are often adopted verbatim or with modifications by provinces or territories as regulations.
Always check with local officials to determine which edition of the building or fire code they
have adopted, and whether additional modifications, amendments or restrictions apply.

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA): An organization composed of volunteer experts

from federal, state and local governments, educational institutions, business, insurance
companies, affected industries and the public which develops national fire codes. NFPA fire
codes are often adopted verbatim or with modifications by state or local jurisdictions, particularly
states in the eastern portion of the United States. Always check with local officials to determine
which edition of the building or fire code they have adopted, and whether additional
modifications, amendments or restrictions apply.

NFPA 30 & 30A:. NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code, pertains to the
design, use, installation and maintenance of storage tanks for flammable and combustible
liquids. NFPA 30A, Automotive and Marine Service Station Code, pertains to specific
requirements for service stations. Always check with local officials to determine which
edition of the building or fire code they have adopted, and whether additional
modifications, amendments or restrictions apply.
NFPA 37: Standard for the Installation and Use of Stationary Combustion Engines and
Gas Turbines.
NFPA 70: National Electrical Code. Pertains to the design and installation of electrical
systems. Always check with local officials to determine which edition of the building or
fire code they have adopted, and whether additional modifications, amendments or
restrictions apply.

Copyright © 2001 by Steel Tank Institute, 570 Oakwood Drive, Lake Zurich, Illinois 60047. All rights reserved.
 NFPA 329: Underground Leakage of Flammable and Combustible Liquids, pertains to
testing for underground system leaks, and tracing, removing and disposing of leaked
material. Always check with local officials to determine which edition of the building or
fire code they have adopted, and whether additional modifications, amendments or
restrictions apply.

Normal Venting: A free-opening vent required by code which relieves either the vacuum or the
pressure that might develop during normal operation.

O
Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA): A federal governmental body that sets
and enforces various product-safety and work-safety standards.

OSHA 29 CFR 1910.106: Flammable and Combustible Liquids

OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120: Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response and
Excavating.
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134: Occupational Safety and Health Standards.
OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P:

Overfill Prevention: An audible, visible or mechanical means of warning and/or preventing

against overfilling a tank.

P
Permatank®: (See STI F922).

Petroleum Equipment Institute (PEI): A petroleum industry trade association of firms engaged
in the distribution, manufacture, and installation of equipment used in petroleum marketing
operations. Among other things, PEI publishes recommended practices on such subjects as
underground tank installation, gasoline vapor recovery systems, and aboveground storage tanks.

PEI/RP 100: Recommended Practices for Installation of Underground Liquid Storage

Systems.
PEI/RP 200: Recommended Practices for Installation of Aboveground Storage Systems
for Motor Vehicle Fueling.
PEI/RP 300: Recommended Practices for Installation and Testing of Vapor Recovery
Systems at Vehicle Fueling Sites.

Positive Shut-Off Fill Limiter: Also called an overfill prevention valve, this is a shut-off valve
and an integral part of the drop tube used for tank filling. An arm mechanism rises with the fluid
level and closes the valve in two stages. When the product level reaches a certain percentage of
tank capacity (85% or 90%, depending on code followed), the flow rate is reduced. At 90% or
95% of tank capacity (depending on code), the valve completely closes and stops the filling
process. A gravity fill limiter is generally used for underground tanks. A pressure rated fill limiter
is required for aboveground tanks.

Pressure Regulating Valve: A normally-closed valve incorporating a pilot valve which opens
the main valve when a vacuum is applied, thereby allowing the liquid flow.

Copyright © 2001 by Steel Tank Institute, 570 Oakwood Drive, Lake Zurich, Illinois 60047. All rights reserved.
Pressure Relief Valve: A valve which prevents thermal blocking of liquid in abovegrade pipe by
regulating and relieving pressure resulting from thermal expansion from ambient temperature
increases and solar heating.

Pressure System: A fuel dispensing system in which the pumping unit is located remote from the
dispenser itself (typically inside or directly above the storage tank). The pipelines are thus
pressurized when a dispenser is authorized to dispense fuel.

Pressure/Vacuum Vent: A relief vent which will activate at a pre-set amount of pressure or
vacuum to prevent positive or negative pressure build-up beyond safe levels.

Primary Tank Emergency Vent: When exposed to fire, the liquid contents of a tank will be
heated and can potentially boil, producing vapor evolution in excess of normal operating
conditions. Emergency venting relieves this pressure.

Pulsars: Devices which, via electronic pulses, facilitate communication between

dispensers/pumps and the fueling control system of the amount of fuel being dispensed. Pulsars
interface with the meter in a fuel dispenser by reading the rotation of the pistons and sending
electronic pulses, which are calibrated to reflect gallonage.

Q
Quick Connect Couplings: Couplings, such as those utilizing cam-and-groove designs, which
can be quickly connected and disconnected.

R
Remote Fill: An assembly that would allow aboveground tank filling from ground level.
Assembly will typically include a dry-break coupling and/or valving, piping and a fabricated box
to contain the fill components and any spilled product.

Roark Formula: An equation within Underwriters Laboratories standard UL 58 and UL 1746

used to calculate the buckling pressure, minimum steel shell thickness, or maximum length for an
underground storage tank.

S
Saddle Support: Steel foundation supports for horizontal aboveground tanks. The upper portion
of the saddle is curved to conform to the shape of the tank, and is welded to the tank. Saddles
elevate horizontal tanks above the ground and thus facilitate inspection.

Secondary Containment: A system that contains liquid that may leak from the primary storage
tank or piping. Double-wall tanks and/or double-wall piping are most common means of
secondary containment, although a secondary containment system may also be comprised of an
impervious liner installed in the tank excavation or the piping trench. The interstitial (annular)
space between the inner and outer tank, or primary and secondary piping, is capable of being
monitored for leakage into the space from either the interior or the exterior.

Copyright © 2001 by Steel Tank Institute, 570 Oakwood Drive, Lake Zurich, Illinois 60047. All rights reserved.
Secondary Containment Emergency Vent: When exposed to fire, the liquid contents of a tank
will be heated and can potentially boil, producing vapor evolution in excess of normal operating
conditions. Emergency venting relieves this pressure. Secondary containment venting relieves
any pressure build-up in the secondary containment area should flammable or combustible liquid
inadvertently be contained within the interstice during a fire.

Seismic Zone: An area of the United States identified by a specific probability of earthquake
intensity, used for the design of buildings and other structures. For aboveground tanks, the
seismic zone in which the tank is located will dictate the foundation and saddle design needed to
support the tank in service.

Separation Distance: The minimum distance, dictated by fire or building codes, for location of
an aboveground storage tank relative to other tanks, buildings, property lines, public ways,
dispensers or vehicles.

Service Stations: Per NFPA 30A, that portion of a property where liquids used as motor fuels are
stored and dispensed from fixed equipment into the fuel tanks of motor vehicles or approved
containers.

Shear Valve: A device mounted within the fuel line, directly underneath the dispenser/pump,
which shuts off product flow in the event the pump is dislocated or overturned. The top section
shears off, causing the valve to close. A fusible link releases at an elevated temperature (typically
165F) in the event of fire, allowing the valve to automatically close, reducing fire hazard.

Side Fill: (See Fill).

Side-Mounted Dispenser: (See Dispenser).

Skid Tank: An aboveground tank mounted on a small factory-built platform, angle iron or
beams. The platform or beams keep the tank from resting directly on the ground and also prevent
it from rolling over. Further, the platform or beams allow the tank to be dragged from one
location to another on the site, thus the term skid. Dispensing pumps are sometimes mounted on
the skid along with the tank to create a self-contained, movable dispensing and storage system.

Solenoid Valve: An electrically operated, normally closed, magnetic valve which prevents
siphon flow from the tank to the dispenser or product line.

Southern Building Code Congress International (SBCCI): An organization which develops

and publishes the Standard Fire Prevention Code, used primarily in the Southeastern United
States, pertaining to storage and dispensing of flammable and combustible liquids. SBCCI no
longer updates the Standard Codes, but continues to administratively support them. Instead,
SBCCI endorses and helps develop the International Codes through the International Code
Council (ICC). Always check with local officials to determine which edition of the building or
fire code they have adopted, and whether additional modifications, amendments or restrictions
apply.

Southwest Research Institute (SwRI): An independent nonprofit organization that tests

products for public safety.

Copyright © 2001 by Steel Tank Institute, 570 Oakwood Drive, Lake Zurich, Illinois 60047. All rights reserved.
 SwRI 93-01 Testing Requirements for Protected Aboveground Flammable Liquid/Fuel
Storage Tanks
SwRI 97-04 Testing Requirements for Fire Resistant Aboveground Flammable
Liquid/Fuel Storage Tanks in Accordance with Section 2-4.5 of NFPA 30A (1996)

Spill Containment: An assembly installed around the fill connection which will hold a limited
amount of product, typically 5 gallons, which may have been spilled upon the disconnect of the
delivery fitting or in the event of tank overfill.

Stage I Vapor Recovery: Involves the capture of vapors being expelled from the storage tank
during fuel delivery, as the liquid fills the tank and displaces the vapors. Mandated in so-called
ozone non-attainment areas by the US EPA, Stage I vapor recovery systems capture the displaced
fuel vapors, via vapor return hoses, to the delivery truck, for transport back to the bulk terminal.

Stage II Vapor Recovery: Involves the capture of vapors being expelled from the vehicle fuel
tank as the liquid fills the tank and displaces the vapors. Mandated in so-called ozone non-
attainment areas by the US EPA, Stage II vapor recovery systems capture and retain the displaced
fuel vapors, via vapor return hoses and piping, to the storage tank.

Standard Fire Code: A national fire code adopted by many states (particularly in the
southeastern portion of the US), which includes technical guidelines for use in installing and
maintaining underground storage tanks. The Southern Building Code Congress, International
(SBCCI) has stopped further development of the Standard Fire Code in favor of the International
Fire Code published by the International Code Council (ICC). Always check with local officials
to determine which fire code is adopted and whether additional modifications, amendments or
restrictions apply.

State of California Air Resources Board (CARB): An organization involved in developing air
emission standards.

Steel Tank Institute (STI): An industry trade association, representing manufacturers of shop-
built steel aboveground and underground storage tanks. STI develops technical standards for the
design, construction, installation, and operation of tank systems. It also maintains a quality
control program for its members.

STI F841: Steel Tank Institute (STI) standard entitled “Standard for Dual Wall Underground
Steel Storage Tanks.” The standard addresses underground double containment (atmospheric
type) vessels with built-in interstitial monitoring capability and covers the manufacture,
inspection and testing of dual-wall steel tanks prior to shipment. This standard is referenced in the
sti-P3 ® and ACT-100® specifications. Always check with the tank manufacturer to determine
whether additional modifications, amendments or restrictions apply. Also check for revisions or
updates to the standard.

STI F894: Steel Tank Institute (STI) standard entitled “ACT-100® Specification for External
Corrosion Protection of FRP Composite Steel USTs”. Pertains to the design and fabrication of the
ACT-100® technology, a composite steel underground storage tank utilizing an FRP laminate
over a steel tank to provide exterior corrosion control without the need for external cathodic
protection. Always check with the tank manufacturer to determine whether additional
modifications, amendments or restrictions apply. Also check for revisions or updates to the
standard.

Copyright © 2001 by Steel Tank Institute, 570 Oakwood Drive, Lake Zurich, Illinois 60047. All rights reserved.
STI F922: Steel Tank Institute (STI) standard entitled “Specification for Permatank®”. Pertains
to the design and fabrication of the Permatank® technology, a steel inner tank within a fiberglass-
reinforced plastic (FRP) outer containment. Always check with the tank manufacturer to
determine whether additional modifications, amendments or restrictions apply. Also check for
revisions or updates to the standard.

STI F921: Steel Tank Institute (STI) standard entitled “Aboveground Tanks with Integral
Secondary Containment – F921”. Pertains to the design and fabrication of the F921® technology,
an aboveground, UL 142-listed tank, utilizing a steel inner tank, and steel outer tank, forming an
interstitial (annular) space between the two tanks, which is capable of being monitored for
leakage into the space from either the interior or exterior walls. Always check with the tank
manufacturer to determine whether additional modifications, amendments or restrictions apply.
Also check for revisions or updates to the standard.

STI F941: Steel Tank Institute (STI) standard entitled “Fireguard® Thermally Insulated
Aboveground Storage Tank Standard”. Pertains to the design and fabrication of the Fireguard®
technology, an aboveground, UL 2085-Listed protected tank, utilizing a steel inner tank,
lightweight monolithic insulation material, and an outer steel tank. Always check with the tank
manufacturer to determine whether additional modifications, amendments or restrictions apply.
Also check for revisions or updates to the standard.

STI F961: Steel Tank Institute (STI) standard entitled “ACT-100-U® Specification for External
Corrosion Protection of Composite Steel USTs”. Pertains to the design and fabrication of the
ACT-100-U® technology, a composite steel underground storage tank utilizing a thick film
urethane over a steel tank to provide exterior corrosion control without the need for external
cathodic protection. Always check with the tank manufacturer to determine whether additional
modifications, amendments or restrictions apply. Also check for revisions or updates to the
standard.

STI F001: Steel Tank Institute (STI) standard entitled “Fire Resistant Tanks – Flameshield™”.
Pertains to the design and fabrication of the Flameshield™ technology, an aboveground, SwRI
97-04-listed fire-resistant tank, utilizing a steel inner tank, and steel outer tank, and/or diked
construction. Always check with the tank manufacturer to determine whether additional
modifications, amendments or restrictions apply. Also check for revisions or updates to the
standard.

sti-P3: Steel Tank Institute (STI) standard entitled “sti-P3 ® Specifications and Manual for
External Corrosion Protection of Underground Steel Storage Tanks”. Pertains to the design and
fabrication of the sti-P3 ® technology, a coated and cathodically protected steel underground
storage tank. Always check with the tank manufacturer to determine whether additional
modifications, amendments or restrictions apply. Also check for revisions or updates to the
standard.

STI PP4 Installation Instructions: Steel Tank Institute (STI) “PP4 Permacell Plus Installation
Instructions” addressing the procedure for installation of the PP4 cathodic protection monitoring
system, which allows the tank owner/operator to self-test the cathodic protection system for the
sti-P3 ® underground storage tank. Always check with the tank manufacturer to determine whether
additional modifications, amendments or restrictions apply. Also check for installation instruction
revisions or updates.

Copyright © 2001 by Steel Tank Institute, 570 Oakwood Drive, Lake Zurich, Illinois 60047. All rights reserved.
STI R821: Steel Tank Institute (STI) “sti-P3 ® Installation Instructions” for the sti-P3 ®
technology. Topics covered include excavation and bedding, aboveground air test, tank handling,
anode integrity, anchoring, backfilling, final air test, tank monitoring system installation, tank
installation checklist, and an Installer Information Card. Always check with local officials and
tank manufacturer to determine whether additional modifications, amendments or restrictions
apply. Also check for installation instruction revisions or updates.

STI R892: Steel Tank Institute (STI) recommended practice entitled “Recommended Practice for
Corrosion Protection of Underground Piping Networks Associated with Liquid Storage and
Dispensing Systems”. Outlines the steps in designing, installing and monitoring of corrosion
control systems for underground metallic piping. Always check with local officials to determine
whether additional modifications, amendments or restrictions apply. Also check for RP revisions
or updates.

STI R913: Steel Tank Institute (STI) “ACT-100® Installation Instructions” for the ACT-100®
underground storage tank technology. Topics covered include excavation and bedding, initial air
test at job site, FRP laminate test and repair, tank handling, anchoring, backfill, final air test,
electrical isolation, sealing of pipe connections and lifting lugs, final backfill, installation
checklist, and an Installer Information Card. Always check with local officials and tank
manufacturer to determine whether additional modifications, amendments or restrictions apply.
Also check for installation instruction revisions or updates.

STI R923: Steel Tank Institute (STI) “Permatank® Installation Instructions” for the Permatank®
underground storage tank technology. Topics covered include excavation and bedding, tank
handling, backfilling, tank installation checklist, and an Installer Information Card. Always check
with local officials and tank manufacturer to determine whether additional modifications,
amendments or restrictions apply. Also check for installation instruction revisions or updates.

STI R942: Steel Tank Institute (STI) document entitled “Fireguard Installation & Testing
Instructions for Thermally Insulated, Lightweight, Double Wall Fireguard Aboveground Storage
Tanks”. Outlines the steps in installing and testing of the Fireguard tank. Always check with local
officials to determine whether additional modifications, amendments or restrictions apply. Also
check for installation instructions update or revisions.

Striker Plates: Plates installed directly underneath the drop tube or gauge ports of an
underground storage tank to absorb the impact of repeated gauge sticking and to help dissipate
the impact of product being dropped into the tank. Striker plates are required with all
underground storage tanks built to UL-58 and/or Steel Tank Institute (STI) standards, and are
installed by the tank manufacturer.

Submersible Pump: A pump located inside a storage tank, positioned near the bottom of the
tank, thereby “submerged” in the fuel. Also referred to as a “turbine” pump, it is used in
pressurized systems. (See Pressure Systems).

Suction Pump: A fuel dispensing device that incorporates a suction pump to pull product
through the lines (as opposed to a pressure system).

Suction System: A fuel dispensing system in which product from a storage tank is pulled by
vacuum into the dispenser (suction pump) by a pumping unit inside the dispenser.

Copyright © 2001 by Steel Tank Institute, 570 Oakwood Drive, Lake Zurich, Illinois 60047. All rights reserved.
T
Tank Compartment: A portion of a storage tank that is separated from other portions by one or
more walls, or bulkheads, creating an individual space within the tank. While a typical storage
tank is designed to contain a single liquid, a compartmented tank may be used to store two or
more different grades or types of fuel, with each in its own storage space, with separate fittings
and controls.

Tank Supports: Fire Codes have specific requirements for aboveground tank supports for tanks
storing flammable and combustible liquids. Per the National Fire Code materials having a fire
resistance rating of not less than 2 hours, except that steel saddles need not be protected if less
than 12 inches high at their lowest point.

Thermal Insulation: A material placed within the interstice of a double-wall tank to minimize
the heat transfer from the secondary tank to the primary tank, when the tank is exposed to a
hydrocarbon pool fire.

Tight Fill Adapter (Dry-Break Coupling): Quick-connect couplings with integral valve
assemblies to allow virtually drip-free connection of fill lines.

Top Fill: (See Fill).

Top-Mounted Dispenser: (See Dispenser).

Two Hour Fire Rating: A primary tank which has a tested ability to maintain an internal
temperature below a specified limit for two hours when exposed to external temperatures of
2,000F.

U
Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL): An independent nonprofit organization that tests products for
public safety.

Underwriters' Laboratories of Canada (ULC): An independent nonprofit organization that

tests products for public safety in Canada.

UL 58: Standard for Steel Underground Tanks for Flammable and Combustible Liquids.
Pertains to the fabrication and assembly of horizontal atmospheric-type steel tanks and
cylindrical tanks and leak testing requirements before shipment from the manufacturer.
UL 80: Standard for Steel Tanks for Oil-Burner Fuel. Pertains to the fabrication and
assembly of atmospheric steel tanks used storage and supply of fuel oil for oil burners.
UL 87: Standard for Powered-operated Dispensing Devices for Petroleum Products and
Combustible Liquids.
UL 142: Standard for Steel Aboveground Tanks for Flammable and Combustible
Liquids. Pertains to the fabrication and assembly of horizontal and vertical atmospheric-
type steel tanks, and leak testing requirements before shipment from the manufacturer.
UL 567: Standard for Pipe Connectors for Flammable and Combustible Liquids and LP-
Gas. Pertains to swivel connectors, pipe-connector fittings, and hose-type pipe
connectors for flammable and combustible liquids and LP-Gas.
UL 842: Standard for Valves for Flammable Fluid.

Copyright © 2001 by Steel Tank Institute, 570 Oakwood Drive, Lake Zurich, Illinois 60047. All rights reserved.
 UL 971: UL Listed Non-Metal Pipe, a guide to non-metal piping systems.
UL 1238: Control Equipment for Use With Flammable Liquid Dispensing Devices.
UL 1746: Standard for Corrosion Protection Systems for Underground Storage Tanks.
UL 2085: Standard for Protected Aboveground Tanks for Flammable and Combustible
Liquids.
UL 2244: Aboveground Flammable Liquid Tank Systems.

Uniform Fire Code (UFC): A national fire code adopted by many states (particularly in the
western portion of the US), which includes technical guidelines for use in installing and
maintaining underground storage tanks. The International Fire Code Institute (IFCI) has
transferred responsibility for developing and publishing the Uniform Fire Code to the National
Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Always check with local officials to determine which fire
code is adopted and whether additional modifications, amendments or restrictions apply. Also
check for Code revisions or updates.

UFC Article 52: Uniform Fire Code (UFC) entitled “Motor Vehicle Fuel-Dispensing
Stations”. Pertains to the design and installation of automotive, marine and aircraft motor
vehicle fuel-dispensing stations, both public accessible and private operations.
UFC Article 79: Uniform Fire Code (UFC) code entitled “Flammable and Combustible
Liquids”. Pertains to the storage, use, dispensing, mixing and handling of flammable and
combustible liquids.

V
Vehicular Collision Protection: Some means, such as concrete-filled steel posts, which are
installed around an aboveground storage tank or a dispenser to prevent vehicles from hitting
them.

Vapor Recovery, Stage I: (See Stage I Vapor Recovery).

Vapor Recovery, Stage II: (See Stage II Vapor Recovery).

W
Waste Oil Assembly: An assembly which allows the collection of waste fluids, such as oil, into a
basin, where they are then pumped into the storage tank until removal by a waste hauler.

Copyright © 2001 by Steel Tank Institute, 570 Oakwood Drive, Lake Zurich, Illinois 60047. All rights reserved.