API Code Cover Wear Plate Over Lap Weld?

[rmme17]

I am searching for any information in the API650/653 codes that would govern the following situation:
The columns supporting the roof will have new wear plates installed underneath them during repair and replacement of the floor of a Bunker C storage tank. Some of the column bases sit over top of the lap welds between different floor plates. When the new wear plate is installed, it will also sit over the lap welded plates, leaving a gap of approximately 5/16" between the floor and the wear plate under the area where the lower plate meets the upper plate. There will be a gap there, and I am wondering if this is allowed or if we should install small 5/16 inch plates under part of the wear plate to make sure it is supported evenly underneath and at the same elevation. Any help is appreciated. Thanks,

 

[JStephen]

In practice, this seems to be a non-issue. I don't think you could really improve the situation by putting spacers in, although you might make the welding easier.

 

[IFRs]

The wear plate is typically seal welded to the bottom. Somehow the tankies manage to do it, probably with a persuader. The plate between the column and the wear plate is not welded to the wear plate - just the column.