Abstract: The traditional “periodic inspection” mode of atmospheric storage tank is prone to “inspection surplus” or “inspection deficiency”, hence the risk based inspection of atmospheric storage tank is carried out to ensure that the risk in the operation of the tank is within the acceptable range. Using the acoustic emission testing data of tank bottom plate to modify the preset corrosion rate of the bottom plate in risk assessment, and combining with the early inspection results, service time, equipment damage level and other comprehensive risk assessment, the results of risk assessment are more accurate and reliable, which provides a reference for the formulation of inspection strategy.