Don't forget about UG-42, your limits will overlap with these nozzles. It would be easier for your fitters if the pad is fitting around knuckle of 2:1 because of larger knuckle radius. Installing nozzles in or near knuckle is acceptable, but don't forget to set your limits of reinf.
Couple options, depending on length of leg, vesselfab idea would work, if legs are long, extend broke plate legs to outside of insulation and weld A-36 angle to end. Other option would be use 304ss angle legs.
This is acceptable by ASME, our company has done it in the pass. Its cheaper alernative as well. The only possible problem is your client not allowing Stainless in the plant area where the tank goes.
The pipe is SA-333 Gr 6 which is exempt and shell is SA-516-70 Norm which is exempt. Category "D" is exempt from production impacts I agree. Should the procedure you are using be qualified for .218 (.1875-.375) or .75 (.75-1.5)range?
On Carbon Steel vessel which requires Charpy Impacts per Code, what is governing thickness on Category D joint for your welding procedure? Your nozzle is 2" Sch. 80 and shell is 1.25" thick.
ASME Section VIII Appendix 2 address this setback, max setback in your case would be tn= 1/2" plus 1/4" = 3/4".
Fabricator needs too add short cylinder to vessel head then attach body flange. Steve