Ametank is a specialized engineering software application designed for the modeling, analysis, and detailed design of aboveground storage tanks (ASTs). It serves as a comprehensive platform that automates the otherwise complex and time-consuming tasks of tank design by adhering to international standards such as API 650, API 620, and API 653. The software provides engineers with the ability to create accurate 3D models, generate fabrication drawings, and produce detailed reports, including bill of materials (BOM), cutting plans, and welding schedules.
The core purpose of Ametank is to bridge the gap between conceptual design and practical fabrication. By integrating geometric modeling with structural calculations and material libraries, it ensures that tanks are safe, compliant, and optimized for their intended service. This not only reduces the risk of design errors but also saves significant time and cost for engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) companies. Ametank online training enables engineers to simulate various load conditions—such as wind, seismic activity, hydrostatic pressure, and temperature variations—making it invaluable for industries where reliability and safety are paramount. In essence, it transforms the tank design process into a streamlined, efficient, and error-resistant workflow, empowering engineers and organizations to deliver high-quality storage solutions that meet both operational and regulatory requirements.
Importance of Tank Design and Simulation in Oil, Gas, and Process Industries
Storage tanks are central to the oil, gas, petrochemical, and process industries because they hold critical raw materials and finished products, from crude oil and LNG to chemicals and water. The design and simulation of tanks are vital to ensure structural stability, regulatory compliance, and safety under varying operating conditions. Proper simulation helps predict performance during earthquakes, extreme weather, or internal pressure surges, thereby reducing the risks of catastrophic failure. Furthermore, accurate tank design optimizes material usage, lowers construction costs, and extends the operational life of tanks. For industries managing hazardous fluids, simulation becomes even more critical to safeguard people, the environment, and assets.
Historical Background and Evolution of Tank Design Software
The evolution of tank design software can be traced through several phases:
- Manual Drafting Era (Pre-1970s): Engineers relied on hand calculations, blueprints, and drafting boards. Designs were time-consuming and prone to human error.
- Early CAD Adoption (1970s–1980s): Introduction of computer-aided design tools reduced drafting time but offered limited analysis capabilities.
- Specialized Engineering Software (1990s): Dedicated tools emerged for pressure vessel and tank design, integrating geometric modeling with stress analysis.
- Integration with Codes (2000s): Software began embedding API, ASME, and regional codes, automating compliance.
- Advanced Simulation (2010s onward): Modern tools like Ametank combine CAD modeling, finite element analysis, and fabrication detailing in a single platform, improving accuracy and productivity.
Position of Ametank Compared to Other Engineering Tools
Ametank occupies a unique niche among engineering software tools. While platforms like AutoCAD and SolidWorks excel at generic 3D modeling, they lack specialized libraries and compliance features for tank design. Tools such as PV Elite or Intergraph TANK focus on pressure vessels or simplified analysis but may not deliver the same level of fabrication detailing as Ametank. By combining geometry modeling, code-based validation, and production-ready outputs, Ametank certification bridges the gap between design and construction. This makes it especially valuable for EPC companies and industries where accuracy, compliance, and efficiency directly translate into safety and cost savings.
Introduction to Ametank Developer and Company Background
Ametank is developed by AME Software Products, Inc., a company that specializes in providing advanced engineering tools tailored for the oil, gas, petrochemical, and process industries. With decades of experience in structural and mechanical engineering software, AME has positioned itself as a leader in niche design solutions that address industry-specific needs. The company focuses on creating user-friendly applications that align with international standards and regulatory codes, ensuring reliability and global acceptance. Its flagship product, Ametank, reflects AME’s mission to streamline complex tank design processes while maintaining the highest levels of accuracy, compliance, and safety. By continuously updating its software to incorporate the latest design codes and technological advances, AME has built strong credibility among EPC contractors, consultants, and operators worldwide.
Key Design Objectives of Ametank
- To provide a comprehensive tank modeling environment supporting various geometries and configurations.
- To ensure strict compliance with international standards such as API 650, API 620, and API 653.
- To deliver fabrication-ready outputs, including cutting plans, welding schedules, and BOMs.
- To enhance accuracy and reliability through automated calculations and error checks.
- To optimize design efficiency, saving time and cost for engineering and construction projects.
- To support interoperability with CAD and project management tools.
- To enable simulation of real-world conditions, including wind, seismic, and hydrostatic loads.
- To provide flexibility in customization for materials, dimensions, and project-specific requirements.
Market Adoption and Global Presence
Ametank has seen widespread adoption across major oil and gas hubs, petrochemical complexes, and industrial infrastructure projects around the globe. Engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) companies frequently deploy Ametank training for large-scale storage projects, while consulting firms rely on it to ensure compliance and safety in design audits. The software is widely used in regions such as North America, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Europe, where strict adherence to API and ASME standards is required. Its reputation for delivering reliable and fabrication-ready outputs has made it a preferred choice for both established enterprises and smaller engineering firms. The strong global presence is further reinforced by training programs, dedicated technical support, and partnerships with industry associations, positioning Ametank as a trusted name in tank design.
Licensing Models and Availability
Ametank is typically offered through commercial licensing models that cater to diverse organizational needs. Options often include single-user licenses for individual engineers, network licenses for team-based environments, and enterprise solutions for large corporations handling multiple projects simultaneously. Some versions provide time-bound licenses or subscription-based access to make it flexible for short-term projects. Updates are rolled out regularly to ensure compliance with the latest international codes and design practices, and license holders receive access to technical support and software upgrades. Ametank is available for download and activation worldwide, with support channels and training services ensuring smooth onboarding for new users.
Core Feature of Ametank
1. Tank Geometry Modeling Capabilities
Ametank provides powerful geometry modeling tools that allow engineers to design tanks of various types and configurations, including fixed roof, floating roof, dome roof, and cone roof tanks. The software can handle small storage tanks as well as large industrial-scale tanks used in refineries and petrochemical complexes. Its modeling capabilities extend to details like shell courses, roof plates, bottom plates, nozzles, and appurtenances. With 3D visualization, engineers can easily validate proportions, detect design issues early, and ensure the tank fits project-specific requirements.
2. Design Codes Supported (API 650, API 620, API 653, etc.)
One of Ametank’s strongest features is its strict adherence to international design codes and standards. The software supports widely recognized codes such as API 650 for welded storage tanks, API 620 for large, low-pressure tanks, and API 653 for inspection, repair, and reconstruction of tanks. By embedding these standards into its calculations, Ametank ensures compliance, safety, and reliability. It also allows engineers to keep up with the latest revisions of these codes, making it suitable for global projects with varying regulatory requirements.
3. Material Libraries and Customization Options
Ametank comes with an extensive material library that includes steel grades, alloys, and other commonly used construction materials. These libraries are preloaded with mechanical properties such as yield strength, tensile strength, and permissible stress limits. Engineers can easily select materials according to project specifications, while also having the flexibility to add or customize new materials as required. This feature ensures not only compliance with design standards but also enables cost optimization by selecting appropriate materials tailored to environmental conditions and service requirements.
4. Plate Cutting Plans and Fabrication Drawings
One of the unique advantages of Ametank is its ability to generate precise plate cutting plans and fabrication-ready drawings. These outputs help fabricators reduce material wastage and improve efficiency during construction. Engineers can produce detailed layouts for shell courses, roof plates, and bottom plates, with clear markings for welding, bending, and assembly. The software provides optimized nesting patterns for steel plates, ensuring cost savings in procurement. This direct link between design and fabrication minimizes errors, reduces rework, and speeds up the project execution process.
5. Integration with CAD and Structural Analysis Software
Ametank supports seamless integration with popular CAD and structural engineering platforms, making it easier to incorporate tank designs into larger plant layouts or structural frameworks. Export formats like DXF allow engineers to transfer 2D and 3D tank models into AutoCAD or other CAD tools. Additionally, the software’s compatibility with structural analysis applications ensures that load assessments, foundation interactions, and seismic calculations can be cross-verified. This interoperability improves collaboration between different engineering disciplines, streamlines workflows, and supports the development of fully integrated digital plant models.
6. Report Generation and Bill of Materials (BOM)
The software simplifies project documentation by automatically generating comprehensive reports and a detailed bill of materials (BOM). These reports include design calculations, compliance checks, and fabrication details, ensuring transparency for audits and client approvals. The BOM lists all materials, including steel plates, nozzles, stiffeners, and welding consumables, along with their quantities and specifications. This helps procurement teams estimate costs accurately and avoid shortages or excess purchases. Automated reporting reduces manual documentation errors and provides stakeholders with accurate, professional-quality deliverables for project management.
7. User Interface Design and Usability Features
Ametank is designed with an intuitive and user-friendly interface that makes it accessible to both beginners and experienced engineers. The layout allows for easy navigation between modeling, analysis, and reporting modules. Key input parameters are organized logically, with built-in prompts and error checks to guide users through the design process. Visualization features, such as 3D previews and cross-sectional views, further enhance usability. The software emphasizes workflow efficiency by reducing repetitive tasks and allowing customization of templates, making it practical for diverse engineering environments.
Conclusion
Ametank stands out as a powerful and specialized software that streamlines the design, analysis, and fabrication of storage tanks across industries. By integrating geometry modeling, international design codes, material libraries, and fabrication-ready outputs, it bridges the gap between conceptual engineering and real-world construction. Its global adoption highlights its reliability and value in ensuring safety, compliance, and cost efficiency. As industries evolve toward digitalization and sustainability, Ametank remains a vital tool, empowering engineers to deliver precise, efficient, and future-ready storage solutions. Enroll in Multisoft Systems now!