The American Petroleum Institute (API) Standard 510 is the most widely used Industry Standard for pressure vessel inspection, repair, and reconstruction. Most refining and chemical processing vessels that have been put into operation are covered by API 510.

On the other hand, the standard can be employed in other industries where pressure vessels are used at the operator's discretion. The ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, for example, covers vessels that were built in conformity with construction codes. It also applies to vessels not built in compliance with a construction code or built per an unrecognized code. API 510 covers vessels constructed in conformity with a recognized construction code but have lost their nameplate or stamping.