A method and a system for transforming a short conduit into an extended conduit for having at least one cable extending therethrough and a sealing system therein

Abstract

A method for transforming a short conduit into an extended conduit for having multiple cables extending therethrough and for being provided with a sealing system for sealing off the extended conduit, wherein the method comprises: ・ providing an extension conduit comprising an insertable end which is provided with at least one clampable portion, and wherein each clampable portion is self-clampable against an inner wall of the short conduit; and ・ inserting the insertable end into the short conduit and self-clamping the extension conduit against an inner wall of the short conduit.

Description

[0001] A method and a system for transforming a short conduit into an extended conduit for having at least one cable extending therethrough and a sealing system therein

[0002] Introduction

[0003] The disclosure relates to a method for lengthening a short conduit for having at least one cable extending through and a sealing system therein. The disclosure also relates to a system for lengthening a short conduit for having at least one cable extending through and a sealing system therein.

[0004] Background

[0005] In most engineered constructions, mobile or immobile, on-shore and off-shore, and particularly onboard of a ship, a floating construction or a non-floating off-shore construction for holding on-board human beings, one will find many cables extending from one compartment to another, or from a confinement to an unconfined space and vice versa. For that purpose, floors, decks, walls or other types of partitions often comprise an opening so that the cable(s) can indeed, via that opening, extend from one space into another. The opening often comprises a tubular passage, or a predominantly rectangularly shaped frame, often referred to as a conduit. Such a conduit is to be fittingly and sealingly installed into or onto the opening. Often the conduit is a steel frame that has been welded into the opening. Space which is in the conduit and not occupied by a cable is usually occupied by a sealing system. The purpose of the sealing system is to stop undesired transport of physical phenomena through the conduit. For instance, the sealing may be designed to stop the flow of air, water, noise, fire, poisonous gases, smoke, etc., to dampen noise and vibrations, and / or to keep a fire for as long as possible isolated on one side of the conduit without an accelerated spreading via the conduit to another space. The sealing systems are tested before they are put on the market so as to be able to assess their performance under exposure to predefined circumstances. Accordingly, sealing systems may be certified. For instance, a certificate may be issued for remaining intact under exposure to a nearby well-defined fire driven high temperature for the time of one hour, or preferably more hours. The number of cables extending through the conduit, the type of sealing applied, the temperatures exposed to, etc. are recorded on the certificate, or an annex thereto. The availability of these certificates facilitates choosing a particular sealing system for use for conduits through which a certain number of cables may extend. Often the specific location in terms of its position in a construction may be mentioned on the certificate, explicitly or in a coded-format. The more critical the location, the higher the bar for application of a sealing in the conduit. A number of sealing systems are known in the marketplace. One system is often referred to as the "block system" for use in a so-called Multi-Cable-Transit (MCT) It was, for instance, installed on the Emma Maersk which according to the official accident report got flooded in the Suez Canal in February 2013 and almost sunk, at least partly due to a failure of the block system. The system comprises modular rubber blocks for placement in a rectangularly shaped conduit. A number of the blocks are provided with a hole for holding a cable. For that purpose, the blocks are built up from two half blocks, each having a recess that forms half the hole. There may be modular blocks without a hole for occupying surplus space in the conduit, and stay plates. The conduit may as indicated above comprise a frame that has been welded into the opening. In use, a number of cables of different diameters may extend through the conduit. Then, the conduit contains the modular blocks (the blocks with a hole for a cable and the blocks without such a hole). The stay plates are fitted with layers of these blocks and aim to keep these blocks in the right position in the welded frame. A mechanism may be available for putting the blocks under pressure aimed at tightening the sealing by the blocks. For this purpose, wedged blocks are normally used with the aim to tighten the gripof the modular blocks tight on the cables and onto each other. Using bolts, the wedged blocks can be further inserted in the conduit frame. Such mechanisms are often referred to as compression units. As explained in the accident report, the system failed on at least an individual component level.

[0006] With the block system, there is a need to compress the blocks after positioning in the welded frame, i.e. the conduit. Compressing the components will, in the long run, result in deterioration of these components, due to time-related phenomena like creep and stress relaxation. Deterioration not only occurs on the level of the components, but also on the level of the sheathing of the cables. These can be irreversibly deformed by the applied compression of the blocks surrounding a cable. As a result of this, replacing an existing sealing system by a similar sealing system comprising blocks having a hole, is highly unlikely to work well as the diameter of the cable may have changed.

[0007] In this context, reference is also made to IEC 60079-14, particularly clause 9.1.4 which indicates that "low smoke and / or fire resistant cables usually exhibit cold flow characteristics". This seems to be particularly relevant for thermoplastic materials which tend to "flow" when subjected to pressure at ambient temperature.

[0008] Over time the sealing integrity will in any case become poor and non-functional. In order to keep the costs down, ideally the cables are not removed and replaced. Further, changing the metal frame of the conduit which has been welded in is to be avoided, as heat may be required or spark-generating cutting may be required to remove the metal frame.

[0009] Given that certificates are issued on the basis of tests for which normally a brand new sealing system is applied, and as explained above a sealing system known in the marketplace deteriorates after installation over time, there is a need for (re-)sealing existing conduits through which a number of cables extend.

[0010] One way of re-sealing an existing conduit through which a number of cables extend would be to not even remove the existing sealing system, and to extend the conduit frame to install in the extension a system that is known to more reliably provide a sealing integrity over a long period of time, preferably without any need for maintenance or re-tightening. Such a solution is described in W02017 / 051033A1, by means of providing a system for sealing one end of an existing conduit through which a number of cables extend and in which a number of elements are placed for holding each of the number of cables in a position in the conduit. That system comprises:

[0011] • a sealant for applying a first layer of sealant at an end of the existing conduit against the number of elements so that the first layer of sealant covers that end of the conduit;

[0012] • a number of flexible elements which each have a first end for positioning that first end into the first layer of sealant when the first layer is still uncured, each of the number of flexible elements further having a second end at such a distance from the respective first end when the first ends are positioned in the first layer of sealant, that the second ends form together a structure against which a second layer of the sealant can be applied,

[0013] • a single-part or multiple part subsystem for constructing a rigid second conduit around the flexible elements from their respective first end up to and including their respective second end when these first ends are positioned in the first layer of sealant, so that the number of cables also extend through the second conduit and a first end of the second conduit is sealed off by the first layer of sealant and a second end of the second conduit can be sealed off by applying a second layer of sealant against the structure formed by the second ends of the number of flexible elements.

[0014] W02017 / 051033A1 also provides a method for sealing an end of an existing conduit through which a number of cables extend and in which a number of elements are placed for holding each of the number of cables in a position in the conduit. That method comprises: • applying a sealant at an end of the existing conduit against the number of elements so as to form a first layer of sealant which covers that end of the conduit;

[0015] • providing a number of flexible elements which each have a first end, positioning the first ends of the flexible elements into the first layer of sealant when the first layer is still uncured, each of the number of flexible elements further having a second end at such a distance from the respective first end that when the first ends are positioned in the first layer of sealant, the second ends form together a structure against which a second layer of the sealant can be applied,

[0016] • providing a single-part or multiple part subsystem for constructing a rigid second conduit around the flexible elements, the conduit extending from the respective first ends up to and including the respective second ends when these first ends are positioned in the first layer of sealant, so that the number of cables also extend through the second conduit and a first end of the second conduit is sealed off by the first layer of sealant and a second end of the second conduit can be sealed off by applying a second layer of sealant against the structure formed by the second ends of the number of flexible elements.

[0017] The rigid second frame often requires some welding of parts together.

[0018] Although this works satisfactorily, the original faulty sealing system is still in the original conduit, and occupies space without contributing to the newly established sealing integrity. Further, no inspection of the cables covered by the original sealing system takes place even though it is known that the sheathing may have suffered from the cold flow, as described above. The welding needs to be carried out with great care to ensure that the cables are not overheated, and to ensure that no sparks are can ignite a larger fire. Further, the installation of this system is somewhat dependent on curing times of the sealant, and requires carefully timing the various steps and holding parts in place when the curing has as yet not been sufficient. More specifically, the fixating and fastening of the conduit occurs in one single step, during which care needs to be taken that the extension conduit does not change its orientation due to the gravity before the sealant has cured.

[0019] Fortunately, these days the above described problems are recognized and appreciated before such compressible block systems are employed. However, the point in time at which it is decided that no block system with a compression unite is to be used, the conduit frame that is suitable for use with such a system may already have been welded into the construction. In certain situations, even the cables may already have been drawn thought the conduit frame. At that stage it is very costly and very dangerous to remove the conduit frame. A technical problem is posed by the question how to provide a method and a system that may allow in an efficient and safe manner for continuation of the further installation and sealing of the conduits, and that may also allow for use of the system and the method in situations where an existing sealing system is in place and the long-term sealing integrity is nevertheless in question. Ideally, any cables already extending through the conduit frame do not need to be withdrawn. of the Invention

[0020] It is an object of the disclosure to provide a solution which addresses at least one of the problems described above.

[0021] Summary of the disclosure

[0022] Provided is an embodiment of a method for transforming a short conduit into an extended conduit for having multiple cables extending therethrough and for being provided with a sealing system for sealing off the extended conduit, wherein the method comprises:

[0023] • providing an extension conduit comprising an insertable end which is provided with at least one clampable portion, wherein each clampable portion is self-clampable against the inner wall of the short conduit; and

[0024] • inserting the insertable end into the short conduit and self-clamping the extension conduit against the inner wall of the short conduit.

[0025] By partly inserting the extension conduit into the short conduit and allowing for self-clamping of the extension conduit in the short conduit, first the fixating of the extension conduit is possible in the short conduit, not only when the conduit extends in a horizontal direction, but also when the conduit extends in a vertical direction. Once the fixating takes place, attaching the conduit to the short conduit can take place by applying a sealant. Then the sealant can cure whilst the extension conduit remains fixated. Further, use is made of the short conduit stability of the short conduit. Advantageously, the space occupied by the short conduit can be used for occupancy by the new sealing system, using space more optimally.

[0026] Although the term "self-clampable" is believed to be self-explanatory, to confirm the reader in establishing the meaning of the term, it is made clear that the clamping occurs when the inserting takes place without a need for undertaking any additional activity or employing any additional mechanism to establish the clamping. There are at least two ways of ensuring that self-clampability is a feature of a portion of the extension conduit, namely (1) biasing that portion to a certain position and allowing that portion to take a position against its bias; and (2) ensuring that the most outer contour of the clampable portion is for at least a part larger than the contour of the inner wall of the extension conduit for which it is designed. In that case, each clampable portion is self-clampable against the inner wall of the short conduit provided that the outer contour of the clampable portion is at least at opposite sides of the insertable end slightly larger than corresponding parts of the contour of the inner wall of the short conduit.

[0027] An embodiment of this method allows thus for positioning the insertable end of the extension conduit in the short conduit so that the positioning is maintained by itself and a worker can focus on further attaching the extension conduit within the short conduit, to provide a stable extended conduit that effectively has a continuous inner wall.

[0028] In an embodiment, the insertable end is provided with an insertable portion which is configured to allow for self-centring of the extension conduit when the insertable end is inserted into the short conduit. This even allows for self-centring, i.e. for accurately self-positioning relative to the inner wall of the short conduit. As will be explained below, this facilitates insertion of the extension conduit into the short conduit. This self-centring also assists in creating a gap between the inner wall of the short conduit and the outer wall of the extension conduit, for providing in that gap a sealant.

[0029] In an embodiment, inserting the extension conduit into the short conduit for forming the extended conduit comprises self-clamping the extension in the short conduit. In this embodiment, the partly inserting and the self-clamping may be one and the same step of the method. Advantageously, no other component and no other activity is needed to keep the extension conduit in position within the short conduit.

[0030] In an embodiment, the method comprises attaching the extension conduit to the short conduit, most preferably using a sealant.

[0031] In an embodiment, using a sealant comprises applying the sealant between the inner wall of the short conduit and a part of an outer wall of the extension conduit not only attaching the extension conduit to the inner wall of the short conduit but also allowing for sealing a transition between the short conduit and the extension conduit. It may lead to an extended conduit which is sealingly kept in place, making good use of the efforts made when the original short conduit was sealingly placed.

[0032] In an embodiment, the method comprises providing segmental parts for forming the extension conduit, wherein preferably providing segmental parts comprises providing an assembly of at least two segmental parts which in a connected condition form the extension conduit. This allows for making an extended conduit even when cables are already extending through the short conduit. The extension conduit can then be built around those cables.

[0033] In an embodiment, the method comprises providing a short conduit with a first sealing system therein prior to partly inserting the extension conduit, wherein the method comprises removing the first sealing system before partly inserting the extension conduit into the short conduit. By removing the first sealing system, it is possible to inspect the cables and to assess the extent to which the sheathing has been deformed or, worse, been damaged. It is also possible to improve the sealing of a MCT without a complete replacement. That is, the short MCT frame itself can be re-used.

[0034] In an embodiment, the method comprises placing around at least a number of cables, and preferable around each, of the cables, a rubber or rubber-like sleeve having a longitudinal slit for facilitating placement around a cable. This provides an extra layer of rubber or rubber like material around the sheathing of the cable, cushioning the cable and preventing further cold flow from occurring.

[0035] In an embodiment, the rubber or rubber-like sleeves are placed around the cables after forming the extended conduit. This allows for meaningfully placing the sleeves in longitudinal direction relative to the extender conduit, so that a sealant can still be applied to form a sealant layer at each of the ends of the extended conduit but still within that extended conduit .

[0036] In an embodiment, remaining space in the extended conduit is filled with rubber or rubber-like sleeves. This allows for the formation of a well clamped-in backing structure against which the sealant at the ends of the extended conduit can be applied.

[0037] Preferably, each end of the extended conduit is provided with a sealant for sealing off each end of the extended conduit. This greatly improves the sealing integrity and takes into account that at the time of installing the sealing system it is unknown from which end a catastrophe approached the conduit. Provided is further a system for transforming a short conduit into an extended conduit for having multiple cables extending therethrough and for being provided with a sealing system for sealing off the extended conduit, wherein the system comprises an extension conduit which has an insertable end for inserting into a short conduit, wherein the insertable end is provided with at least one clampable portion which is self-clampable against an inner wall of a short conduit. Advantageously, as soon as the extension conduit is inserted into a short conduit, the extension conduit is likely to remain at its position relative to the short conduit. It is then possible to attach the extension conduit to the short conduit to complete the transformation of the short conduit into an extended conduit, for instance using a sealant.

[0038] Although the term "self-clampable" is believed to be self-explanatory, to assist the reader in establishing the meaning of the term, it is made clear that the clamping occurs when the inserting takes place without a need for undertaking any additional activity or employing any additional mechanism to establish the clamping. There are at least two ways of ensuring that self-clampability is a feature of a portion of the extension conduit, namely (1) biasing that portion to a certain position and allowing that portion to take a position against its bias; and (2) ensuring that the most outer contour of the clampable portion is for at least a part larger that the contour of the inner wall of the extension conduit for which it is designed. In that case, each clampable portion is self-clampable against the inner wall of the short conduit provided that the outer contour of the clampable portion is at least at opposite sides of the insertable end slightly larger than corresponding parts of the contour of the inner wall of the short conduit for which the extension conduit is intended.

[0039] In an embodiment, the insertable end is provided with an insertable portion which is configured to allow for self-centring of the extension conduit when the insertable end is inserted into the short conduit. Advantageously, the positioning of the extension conduit in the short conduit is taking place as soon as the insertable end of the extension conduit is inserted into the short conduit, so that a main part of the extension conduit, and especially the outer wall of the extension conduit is positioned at a small distance from the inner wall of the short conduit. That small distance is likely to be constant along the circumference of the extension conduit. As will be explained below, this allows for attaching the extension conduit with a sealant against the inner wall of the short conduit.

[0040] In an embodiment, the insertable end extends in an interrupted fashion in a direction along the circumferential direction of the extension conduit. This enhances the flexibility of the self-centring during insertion of the extension conduit, so that the force needed for insertion of the insertable end of the extension conduit is manageable for a worker burdened with the task of making the extended conduit.

[0041] In an embodiment, at least one of the insertable portion and the clampable portion extends in a direction along the circumferential direction of the extension conduit, in an uninterrupted fashion. This is more suitable for a short conduit and an extension conduit which are circular in cross-section. However, also for this use it may be preferable to have interrupted insertable and self-clampable portions

[0042] Accordingly, in an embodiment, at least one of the insertable portion and the clampable portion extends in a direction along the circumferential direction of the extension conduit, in an interrupted fashion. This allows for making the extension conduit out of a sheet of steel, as will be clear from the drawings and the description thereof. Further, it allows for providing at the positions of the interruptions from one side an excess of sealant, also at a position that is more distal than the insertable end of the extension conduit. This allows for anchoring the extension conduit to the inner wall of the short conduit next to the insertion portion of the insertable end as well as between an outer wall of the extension conduit and an inner wall of the short conduit.

[0043] In an embodiment, the insertable end comprises corners which are spatially separated in a circumferential direction, the corners being free from a clampable portion, and free from an insertable portion. This allows for making the extension conduit by simply providing folds for obtaining the insertable end and cuts at positions that would correspond to the corners. Further, it will be easier to provide after insertion of the extension conduit in the short conduit an excess of sealant in the corners, so that the stability of the extended frame as a whole is improved and the sealing of the extension conduit within the short conduit is optimal.

[0044] In an embodiment, the extension conduit is provided with at least one stopper for limiting insertion of extension conduit, the stopper being at a predetermined length from the clampable portion. On the one hand this can ensure that at the other end of the short conduit, the end at which no insertion of the extension conduit took place, the conduit can be sealed off completely wherein the sealant over the entire inner circumference of the short conduit can be applied against the inner wall of the short conduit and have a thickness that provides adequate sealing integrity and properties of the sealant layer. On the other, in case at both ends of the short conduit an extension conduit is inserted, the limited insertion depth can ensure that enough space remains for the insertion of an extension conduit at the other end. The predetermined length can be set to optimize the usage of the extension conduit for each possibility.

[0045] In an embodiment, the stopper is positioned so that at most a length of about 3.0 to 4.5 cm of the extension conduit is insertable into the short conduit. Most short conduits have a length of about 6.0 cm. After insertion, the thickness of a sealant layer that covers the entire inner circumference of the short conduit at the uninserted end can then be 1.5 to 2.0 cm, which forms a good optimum between time to cure and optimal properties of the sealant layer.

[0046] In an embodiment, the stopper is positioned so that at most a length of about 3.0 to 4.5 cm of the extension conduit is insertable into the short conduit. Most short conduits have a length of about 6 cm. By allowing for a maximum insertion of 3 cm, an extension conduit can be inserted at each end of the short conduit and the depth available for each extension conduit is then equal.

[0047] In an embodiment, in longitudinal direction the clampable portion and the stopper are separated by about 1.0 to 2.0 cm, so that there is enough length at which along the inner circumference of the short conduit a sealant can be applied between the inner wall of the short conduit and an outer wall of the extension conduit, for sealing the transition from the short conduit to the extension conduit, and attaching these conduits to each other.

[0048] In an embodiment, the extension conduit is formed using an assembly of at least two segmental parts which in a connected condition form the extension conduit. Advantageously, the extension conduit does not need to take up much space when the segmental parts are in an unassembled condition. The segmental parts may be identical. It may even be possible to stack the segmental parts in a nested condition, to save space for transport and storage. Even more advantageously, the extension conduit that is formed of segmental parts can be built at the installation side around cables that already extend through the short conduit.

[0049] Short Description of the Figures

[0050] Further embodiments and advantages thereof are further disclosed below with reference to drawings, in which:

[0051] Figure 1 shows a conduit frame that is short in terms of its length and which is in itself prior art; Figure 2 shows a perspective view of an example of a system of the present disclosure;

[0052] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of an example of a system of the present disclosure;

[0053] Figure 4 shows schematically a side view of an example of a system of the present disclosure in relation to a schematic cross-sectional view of a conduit frame as shown in Fig. 1;

[0054] Figure 5 shows a schematic view of an example of a system of the present disclosure along a longitudinal direction of parts of the extension conduit;

[0055] Figure 6 shows a schematic view of an example of a system of the present disclosure along a lateral direction after installation of the system;

[0056] Figure 7 shows a schematic view of an example of a system of the present disclosure along a lateral direction after installation of the system at both ends of the short conduit;

[0057] Figure 8 shows a perspective view of insertion of an example of the system into a short conduit;

[0058] Figure 9 shows a perspective view of insertion of an example of the system into a short conduit using a hammer;

[0059] Figure 10 shows a perspective view a step of an example of a method of the disclosure;

[0060] Figure 11 shows a perspective view a result of a step of a method according to the disclosure as well as an example of system of te present disclosure;

[0061] Figure 12 shows in a perspective view in close-up a part of the system shown in Fig. 11;

[0062] Figure 13 shows in a perspective view a system of the present disclosure as inserted in a short conduit;

[0063] Figure 14 shows in a perspective view a system of the present disclosure as inserted in a short conduit, viewed from a different angle than the angle viewed from for obtaining Fig 13;

[0064] Figure 15 shows in a perspective view a step of an example of a method of the disclosure;

[0065] Figure 16 shows in a perspective view a step of an example of a method of the disclosure;

[0066] Figure 17 shows in a perspective view a step of an example of a method of the disclosure.

[0067] Detailed description of the Figures

[0068] In the figures, like references denote like features. The figures and the below description thereof aim to explain the disclosure, by means of one or more examples which are not intended to impose limitations on the breadth of the disclosure.

[0069] Figure 1 shows a short conduit 1 which is in this example a rectangular steel frame that is typically welded into a steel wall. The welds W are better seen in Fig 6 and 7 (only schematically) , and 13 -17 (in perspective views). Such short conduits 1 have often standardized sizes. Their depth is typically 6 cm. The short conduit may previously have served for holding a sealing system comprising stacks of halve blocks, which in turn sealingly held cables that extend through the conduit. However, it is also possible that the conduit has been a so-called blind conduit through which (as yet) no cable extends. Alternatively, the conduit may have been a conduit that was intended for usage in combination with a block system as explained above, but for which a more recent decision changed its future use. The frame usually comprises high in the short conduit a compression unit that allows for exerting pressure onto the blocks that are in the short conduit 1. Reference is made to, for instance, EP1479958 Al, particularly figure 1 thereof. When a decision has been made to not or to no longer employ the block system for sealing, a problem arises in that the short conduit is too short for hosting other sealing systems, particularly other sealing systems that do not require a compression unit and that are often offer a better long term integrity combined with low to no maintenance. Such other sealing systems may need to be hosted in a conduit that is a bit longer than the short conduit.

[0070] Figure 2 shows a system 2 which allows for transforming the short conduit 1 into an extended conduit 7 (see for instance Fig. 6). Post transformation, the extended conduit 7 is suitable for having multiple cables C extending therethrough and for being provided with a sealing system 8 for sealing off the extended conduit 7. The sealing system 8 will be further described below. In any case, the sealing system 8 does not require a compression unit. The sealing system 8 is therefore unlikely to lead to reduced sealing integrity. Further, advantageously, the sheathing on cables C which extend through the extended conduit 7 are unlikely to be deformed (further) by such a sealing system 8, so that the Multi-Cable-Transit (MCT) can have a relatively long life time with continued sealing integrity and little to no maintenance, if needed at all.

[0071] Conceivable is that the extension conduit 3 is a single device, possibly thus even without elements or portions for connecting parts to each other(not shown). This would be very suitable for extending a short conduit through which no cables C extend. However, such an extension conduit cannot easily be placed in a short conduit 1 through which already cables extend. Further, such a conduit may be relatively difficult and therefore expensive to make.

[0072] In the embodiment as shown in all the Figures apart from Fig.l, the extension conduit 3 is formable using an assembly of at least two segmental parts 6 which in a connected condition form the extension conduit 3. Such an embodiment of an extension conduit 3 allows for forming the extension conduit 3 around cables C that extend through the short conduit 1. It is thus not required to remove the cables C for extending the short conduit 1, which saves time and costs. Such an extension conduit 3 is relatively easily made in a cost-effective fashion. Further, it can also be used for short conduits 1 through which no cables extend. The extension conduit can be formed in advance, i.e. before insertion into the short conduit.

[0073] Preferably, the segmental parts are identical as shown in all the Figures apart from Fig. 1. This further enhances the simplicity, makes the system to an extent "fool-proof" and reduces the number of different components, making the admin of storage etc. straightforward.

[0074] The extension conduit 3, and for the embodiment shown in for instance Fig. 3, each segmental part 6, has a longitudinal direction along which a length of the extension conduit can be determined.

[0075] In an embodiment, each of the segmental parts 6 comprises two connectable portions 10 so that the segmental parts 6 can be connected to each other for forming the extension conduit 3. Preferably, each connectable portion comprises a lip 11 extending in the longitudinal direction, wherein each lip 11 extends in a lateral direction away from an inner volume V of the extension conduit 3.

[0076] In an embodiment, each segmental part 6 exhibits over the length of its wall-part 12 symmetry. This removes the need for a degree of attention for ensuring that the parts which are to be connected have the right orientation relative to each other. However, as is clearly visible in Fig. 5, in an alternative embodiment, each segmental part 6 may exhibit asymmetry as far as the positions of the connecting parts 10 (implemented as lips 11) are concerned. Advantageously, after forming the extension conduit 3 the connecting parts will at opposite sides of the wall-part 12 not be aligned. This has advantages when extension conduits 3 are applied closely to each other, as the connecting parts 10 of adjacent extended conduit 7 will not be in each other's way. This also allows for optimal use of space as the extension conduits can be placed very closely to each other.

[0077] In an embodiment, as shown in all the Figures (apart from Fig. 1) each segmental part 6 has an insertable end 4 for insertion into a short conduit 1. The insertable end is provided with at least one clampable portion 5 which is self-clampable against an inner wall 2 of the short conduit 1.

[0078] The insertable end 4 is further preferably provided with an insertable portion 9 which is configured to allow for an extent of self-centring of the extension conduit 3 when the insertable end 4 is inserted into the short conduit 1. This allows for inserting the insertable end with less resistance and with more ease. Preferably, for that purpose the insertable portion 9 is relative to the clampable portion 5 bendable laterally inwardly. This can be implemented by making the insertable portion 9 thinner than the clampable portion 5. This can also be implemented, alternatively or additionally, by making the insertable portion 9 tapered inwardly, and / or extending slightly inwardly. The self-centring will manifest itself when the extension conduit 3 is not accurately aligned for insertion into the short conduit 1. The insertable portion 9 will on insertion of the slightly misaligned extension conduit 3 be pushed against the inner rim of the frame of the short conduit 1 and will on further insertion guide the extension conduit 3 in the direction of the centre of the short conduit 1.

[0079] The extension conduit is provided with a wall-part 12 which is preferably laterally offset inwardly relative to the insertable end 4. After properly inserting the insertable end 4, ideally no contact exists between the inner wall 2 of the short conduit 1 and the outer wall 12 of the extension conduit 3. This would have the advantage that galvanic corrosion which would result from such contact is unlikely to occur. The gap between the inner wall 2 of the short conduit 1 and the outer wall 12 of the extension conduit 3, allows for applying a sealant that will attach the outer wall 12 of the extension conduit 3 to the inner wall 2 of the short conduit 1 without physical contact between the inner wall 2 of the short conduit 1 and the outer wall of the wall-part 12 of the extension conduit 3 themselves. This also reduces the risk on galvanic corrosion.

[0080] It stands to reason that for an embodiment of a system according to this disclosure, and in particular for an extension conduit 3 of such a system, the system respectively the extension conduit 3 and the segmental parts 6 are produced following a specification that the extension conduit 3 is for extending a short conduit 1 of which the inner dimensions are known, in terms of height, width, and depth.

[0081] In an embodiment, the clampable portion 5 is configured to take in an uninserted condition a position that is laterally outward of an inserted position in which the clampable portion 5 makes contact with an inner wall 2 of the short conduit 1 into which the clampable portion 5 has been inserted. This is schematically shown in Fig 4. The difference in terms of lateral distance may be minimal, up to for instance only 0.25 mm, which due to its smallness, is not well noticeable . in Fig. 4. An extension conduit 3, of which the insertable portions 9 have been inserted can be hammered into the short conduit 1 as shown in Fig 9. The slightly oversized lateral dimensions of the clampable portion 5 may depend on the stiffness of the material used for making the extension conduit 3. If the material is fairly elastically bendable, then the oversized lateral dimensions may be relatively large, as the material will bend so as to adopt smaller lateral dimensions. Once inserted, the clampable portion 5 will then be biased against an inner wall 2 of the short conduit 1. If the material is fairly stiff, then maybe more force will be needed to knock the extension conduit 3 into the short conduit 1. Also then the clampable portion 5 will be biased against the inner wall 2 of the short conduit 1.

[0082] It is conceivable, as best visible in Fig 6, that the extension conduit comprises at least one bracket 23 between the insertable portion 9 and one of the wall-parts 12 of the extension conduit 3. The bracket 13 is provided with a stiffener 24 to provide resistance against moving the clampable portion 5 laterally inwardly relative to the wall-part 12. In most practical and easily producible embodiments the bracket will be an integral part of each segmental part. Although, a stiffener 24 may be applied, it is preferable that the extension conduit is free from a stiffener 24 as that allows for obtaining segmental parts 6 that are produceable out of sheeted metal only by cutting and folding techniques without having to add a structural element such as a stiffener. It would also allow to avoid the use of heat for adding a stiffener and would thus allow for maintaining carefully the set dimensions.

[0083] Preferably, the clampable portion 5 has an outer lateral surface 19 for pressing against an inner wall 2 of a short conduit after insertion of the insertable end4 into the short conduit 1. That outer surface 19 may be provided with a cover (not shown) for providing an electrically insulating material between an inner wall 2 of the short conduit 1 and the material of the extension conduit 3. This may be a ceramic or a polymeric cover. The cover is preferably provided with a layer having low friction characteristics for facilitate insertion of the extension conduit 3 into the short conduit 1. For instance PTFE material may be applied to the outer surface 19 as a polymeric layer that is elastically insulating and offering low friction. However, also simply electrically insulating tape can be wrapped around the clampable portion 5. Also an enamelled layer may be employed. The cover works best when the clampable portion 5 is bendable so that the friction between the clampable portion 5 and the inner wall 2 of the short conduit 1 generated when the insertable portion 9 is inserted in the short conduit 1 is to an extent reducible by bending flexibly the insertable end 4 when insertion takes place.

[0084] When the extension conduit 3 is made of a very stiff material, such as steel, the friction between the clampable portion 5 and the inner wall 2 of the short conduit 1 as generated on insertion of the extension conduit 3 is likely to be very high and a cover layer may not work. Then it is best to have the material of the extension conduit 3 matching the material of which the short conduit 1 is made, so as to avoid a large potential for strong galvanic corrosion. In general, the extension conduit 3 is preferably of a metal or a metal alloy, as these can be relatively easily provided as sheets, out of which the segmental parts 6 can easily be produced by a skilled person.

[0085] The extension conduit 3 is preferably provided with at least one stopper 16 for stopping further insertion of the extension conduit 3. For this purpose, the stopper 16 is being at a predetermined length from the insertable end 4. For most standardized short conduits 1, the length (or depth) of the short conduit is 6 cm. For those short conduits 1, the stopper 16 is positioned so that at most a length of about 3 cm to about 4.5 cm is insertable into the short conduit 1. Such short conduits 1 having a depth of 6.0 cm can at each end be provided with an extension conduit 3 which are symmetrically positioned, as schematically shown in Fig. 7. It is also possible that that the stopper 16 is positioned such that at most about 4.5 cm of the extension conduit 3 is insertable into a short conduit 1 (not shown). For a standardized short conduit 1 with a length or depth of 6 cm, this means that enough length at the uninserted end of the short conduit 1 remains for completely being sealed off by sealant. Also at the end at which the insertable end 4 has been inserted, enough overlap between the inner wall 2 of the short conduit 1 and the outer wall 12 of the extension conduit 3 remains for being provided with a sealant for attaching the extension conduit 3 to the short conduit 1 and for sealing off a transition from the short conduit 1 to the extension conduit 3. The insertable end 4 can for such extension conduits 3 have a length which extends over a range of about 3.0 cm in the longitudinal direction, or longer, up to about 4.5 cm. In the longitudinal direction the insertable end and the stopper are separated by about 1.0 cm, or at most 2.5 cm, depending on the length of the short conduit 1 and on whether at each end of the short conduit 1 an extension conduit 3 is inserted or at only one end.

[0086] In an embodiment, as for instance shown in fig. 4, the connecting parts 10, here implemented as lips 11, extend all the way to the end of the extension conduit 3 3 that is opposite the insertable end, to ensure that the extension conduit has an internal wall of the wall-part 12 that is effectively closed in itself up to that end. It is possible, to have the connecting parts 10 ending just about 1 or 1.5 cm away from that end, as in practice within that end of the conduit a sealant layer of about 1.5 cm will be provided, sealing off also any small longitudinal gap. Similarly, the sealant layer that will in practise be provided between the clampable portion 5 and the stopper 16 and between the inner wall 2 of the short conduit 1 and the outer wall 12 of the extension conduit 3, will seal off any gap that may be present there in the wall-part 12 of the extension conduit 3. It will be clear for a skilled person that for each short conduit 1 a suitable design of an extension conduit 3 can be made, so that all relevant features of the extension conduit 3 are implemented.

[0087] Just as guidance for the design of the extension conduit 3, it is pointed out that a sealant requires a a period of time for curing, and that the thicker the sealant layer the longer it takes for curing. When the surface at which contact is established between that surface and the sealant is larger, then the adhesion will be larger. For attaching a part the extension conduit 3 to the inner wall 2 of the short conduit 1, a practical thickness of a sealant is about 1.0 to 2.5 cm as it strikes a balance between enough attaching capacity and time to cure. Given the applicable depth of the short conduit 1, it will be possible to determine the dimensions of the parts of the extension conduit 3 and, if applicable, the segmental parts 6 thereof.

[0088] Turning now to the lips 11 which are usable for connecting the segmental parts 6, at least one of these is preferably extending in a lateral direction beyond the extent to which clampable portion 5 laterally extends, so that the lip 11 can act as the stopper 16.

[0089] In an embodiment, in a longitudinal direction the clampable portion 5 end and the stopper 16 are separated by about 1.0 to about 2.5 cm as this provides an overlap of about 1.0 to 2.5 cm between the inner wall 2 of the short conduit 1 and the outer wall 12 of the extension conduit 3. Reference is made to Fig. 6.

[0090] As shown in Fig 10 to 15, it is possible and recommendable to provide sealant 21 at an inner part of the lip 11, so that the connection is sealed and an inner wall of the wall-part 12 is fully sealed off.

[0091] An embodiment of a system may also be provided with a gasket (not shown) for placement between the two lips 11 of segmental parts 6 that are being connected. The gasket can be provided with through holes which correspond with through holes 20 on the lips 11 for mechanically connecting the lips 11, for instance with bolts and nuts. See Fig 2 to 5 for the through holes 20 in the lips 11. The gasket may have a length such that when the gasket is positioned between the two lips 11 so that its through holes are corresponding to the through holes 20 of the lips 11, the gasket extends further in the length direction toward the insertable end 4 than the extent to which the lips 11 extend in the length direction toward the insertable end 4. This has the advantage that contact between the material of which the extension conduit 3 is predominantly made (most likely sheeted steel) and the material of the short conduit 1 (most likely machined steel) can be avoided at a position near the stopper 16. As a consequence, galvanic corrosion can also in that area be avoided. A distance between the respective material of about 0.1 to 0.2 mm suffices. Of course when a sealant is used between the lips 11 of the connecting parts 10, a thin sealant layer 21 can also be applied between the material of which the extension conduit 3 is predominantly made and the material of which the short conduit 1 is made.

[0092] For the following discussion of embodiments of the disclosed system, it is helpful to note that the extension conduit 3 may have a circumferential direction along which a circumference of the conduit can be determined. This may be helpful in establishing how much sealant is required for applying sealant between the inner wall 2 the short conduit 1 and the outer wall 12 of the extension conduit 3.

[0093] It is possible that at least one of the insertable portion 9 and the clampable portion 5 extends in a direction along the circumferential direction of the extension conduit 3, in an uninterrupted or an interrupted fashion.

[0094] Preferably though, the insertable end 4 extends in an interrupted fashion in a direction along the circumferential direction of the extension conduit 3. Such an interruption provides some flexibility that might be needed for allowing slight deformation of the insertable end 4 to taken place when the insertable end 4 is inserted and clamped into the short conduit 1.

[0095] Even more preferably, the insertable end 4 comprises corners which are spatially separated in circumferential direction, wherein the corners are optionally free from an insertable portion 9 and optionally free from a clampable portion 5, and, or wherein the insertable end 4 is entirely free from corners and in circumferential direction only extends along straight lines.

[0096] Advantageously, this allows for relatively easily producing the segmental parts 6 out of sheeted metal by cutting parts out that would correspond to the positions where according to the predetermined design corners of the insertable end 4 should be, and by folding the sheet then to make sure that the fold extends from the cut-out along the longitudinal direction. The insertable portion 9 and the clampable portion 5 can equally be produced as an integral part of the extension conduit 3 applying suitable folding techniques. The system may also comprise a sealant 18 for attaching the extension conduit 3 to the inner wall 2 of the short conduit 1. The sealant is applicable between the inner wall 2 of a short conduit 1 and an outer wall 12 of the extension conduit 3 over a length that is between the clampable portion 5 and the stopper 16. Ideally, the sealant is uninterruptedly applicable in circumferential direction.

[0097] Further, the system may comprise at least a number of rubber or rubber-like sleeves 22 having a longitudinal slit for facilitating placement around at least one cable C and preferably around each cable C that extends through the extended conduit. The system may further comprises a number of rubber or rubber-like sleeves 22 for filling remaining space in the extended conduit 7.

[0098] Preferably, the sealant 18 may also be applicable for sealing off each end of the extended conduit 7.

[0099] The description now focusses on a method for transforming a short conduit 1 as shown in Fig 1 into an extended conduit 7, as for instance schematically shown in Figures 6 and 7, and in perspective shown in Fig. 8 and 15-17. Such an extended conduit 7 is very suitable for having multiple cables extending therethrough. The extended conduit 7 is also very suitable for being provided with a sealing system for sealing off the extended conduit 7.

[0100] Fig 2, 8, 9 and 12 show a step of the method, namely providing an extension conduit 3 comprising an insertable end 4 which is provided with at least one clampable portion 5. Each clampable portion 5 is self-clampable against an inner wall 2 of the short conduit. In a further step, the insertable end 4 is inserted into the short conduit 1 and the extension conduit 3 clamps itself against an inner wall 2 of the short conduit 1 (see Fig. 8 and 9). This step can be described in another way by putting it that the extension conduit 3 is forced into the short conduit by squeezing the insertable end 4 having the insertable portion 9 and the clampable portion 5 into the short conduit 1.

[0101] The insertable end 5 is preferably provided with an insertable portion 9 which is configured to allow for an extent of self-centring of the extension conduit 3 in the short conduit 1 when the insertable end 4 is inserted into the short conduit 1, as has been explained above.

[0102] Ideally, a part of the insertion the extension conduit 3 clamps itself in the short conduit 1, therewith forming the extended conduit 7. A further step entails attaching the extension conduit 3 to the short conduit 1, preferably using a sealant (see Fig. 15)). The sealant is applied between an inner wall 2 of the short conduit 1 and a part of an outer wall 12 of the extension conduit 3. Clearly, the extension conduit 3 has a longitudinal direction along which a length of the extension conduit 3 can be determined.

[0103] The method preferably entails a step of only partly inserting the extension conduit 3 into the short conduit 1. This step preferably includes inserting the extension conduit 3 till the insertion stops. This is facilitated by an extension conduit 3, which, as shown and discussed above, has preferably at least one stopper 16 for limiting the insertion of the extension conduit 3 into the short conduit 1. The stopper is preferably at a predetermined longitudinal distance from the clampable portion 5. The stopper, as explained above, may be positioned so that at most a length of either about 3 cm or at most about 4.5 cm of the extension conduit is insertable into the short conduit. Also as explained above, the insertable end extends over a range of about 3 cm in the longitudinal direction. However, for one-side placement of an extension conduit, it is also possible that the insertable length is longer. Preferably, in the longitudinal direction the clampable portion 5 end and the stopper are separated by about 1 to 2 cm.

[0104] The sealant is applied between the inner wall 2 of a short conduit 1 and a outer wall 12 of the extension conduit 3 over a length that is between the clampable portion 5 and the stopper 16. Preferably, the sealant is applied uninterruptedly in a circumferential direction of the extension conduit.

[0105] The method may include providing segmental parts 6 for forming the extension conduit 3. Preferably, an assembly of at least two segmental parts 6 is provided. The segmental parts 6 may be identical. The assembly forms in connected condition the extension conduit 3. Each of the segmental parts 6 comprises two connectable portions 10 so that the segmental parts 6 can be connected to each other for forming the extension conduit 3. Preferably, as is derivable from fig. 2 and 3, connecting the segmental parts 6 to each other is implemented by using at least one of a sealant, a mechanical connection and a gasket. Ideally, the mechanical connection, for instance by bolts an nuts, is used to connect the segmental parts. For sealing the connection, a gasket may be used or, additionally or alternatively, a sealant 21. Connecting the two segmental parts 6 may internally within the extension conduit result in a joint. Ideally, the sealant 21 is applied so that inside the extension conduit 3 the joint is sealed off, as shown in (see Fig. 10-12). Sealant 21 may also be used so as to avoid that direct contact between the material of which the short conduit is made and the material of which the extension conduit (or each of the segmental parts thereof) is made, can be avoided (not shown). In practice, this would mean that the stopper 16 is provided with a thin layer of sealant 21 of possibly only 0.1 to 0.2 cm at a side of the stopper 16 that faces the short conduit 1.

[0106] The extension conduit 3 is preferably so provided that each connectable portion 10 preferably extends in the longitudinal direction, wherein each portion 10 comprises a lip 11 which extends in a direction away from an inner volume of the extension conduit. At least one of the lips preferably extends in lateral direction to an extent that is beyond the extent to which the clampable portions extends, so that the lip 11 can act as the stopper 16 referred to above. In longitudinal direction the clampable end 4 and the connectable portion 10 acting as a stopper 16 are separated by a length that is in a range of about 1 to 2 cm. This would allow for the application of a sealing layer of at least 1 cm thick.

[0107] Where a gasket is used, the gasket is placed between the lips 11 of segmental parts 6 that are being connected. Placing the gasket may include positioning the gasket further in the length direction toward the insertable end 4 than the extent to which the lips 11 extend in the length direction toward the insertable end 4. This will also assist in reducing the number of contact points between the material of which the short conduit 1 is made and the material of which the extension conduit 3 is made. As both these material are likely to be of metal and different from each other, avoiding contact would also avoid the occurrence of galvanic corrosion.

[0108] As can be seen in Fig. 6 and 7 inserting the segmental parts into the short conduit comprises inserting the segmental parts over a predetermined distance which in preferably about 3.0. This allows for the availability of enough length for a clampable portion 5. For a single-sided insertion of a short conduit with a depth of 6 cm, the extension conduit 3 may be inserted up to about 4.5 cm into the short conduit 1. A sealant layer of 1.5 cm thick within, and covering, the entire uninserted and of the short conduit 1 can then still be applied. However, if at both ends of the short conduit the segmental parts 6 - in assembled form as part of the extension conduit 3 - are to be inserted, then partly inserting an extension conduit 3 into each end of the short conduit 1, means inserting up to at most half the length of the short conduit 1.

[0109] Where each extension conduit 3 is provided with a wall-part 12 of the extension conduit 3, preferably the wall-part 12 is laterally offset inwardly relative to the insertable end 4.

[0110] The extension conduit 3 may be provided so that it comprises a bracket 23 between the insertable end 4 and the wall-part 12 of the extension conduit. The bracket may be provided with a stiffener 24 to maintain a lateral position of the clampable portion 5 relative to the wall-part 12, as best seen in Fig. 6. In most practical and easily producible embodiments the bracket will be an integral part of each segmental part, and the bracket may be free from a stiffener.

[0111] As can be seen in Fig. 15, attaching the segmental parts 6 to the short conduit 1 using a sealant comprises applying the sealant after inserting the segmental parts 6 into the short conduit 1 and between the clampable portion 5 and the connectable portion 10, and between an outer wall 12 of the extension conduit 3 and an inner wall 2 of the short conduit 1.

[0112] The segmental parts 6 may have been provided so that the clampable portion 5 has an outer surface 19 which is, when aligned prior to insertion for inserting the insertable end 4 into the short conduit 1 by a linear movement of the extension conduit 3, outside of a contour defined by an inner wall 2 of the short conduit 2. That is, the clampable portion 5 is ideally configured to take in an uninserted condition a position that is laterally outwardly of a position in which the clampable portion 5 makes contact with an inner wall 2 of the short conduit 1 once the clampable portion 5 has been inserted into the short conduit 1.

[0113] It is possible that the segmental parts are provided such, that the outer surface of the clampable portion 5 is or has been provided with a cover for providing an electrically insulating material.

[0114] In an embodiment of a method according to the present disclosure, the insertable end 4 is provided with an insertable portion 9 which is relative to the clampable portion 5 laterally inwardly bendable, and / or, the clampable portion 5 has a stiffness which is higher than the stiffness of the insertable portion 9.

[0115] Most practically, the short conduit 1 and or the extension conduit 3 is predominantly made of a metal or a metal alloy.

[0116] It may be the case that one or more cables C already extends through the short conduit before the extension conduit is partly inserted into the short conduit. In such a situation, the method comprises connecting the segmental parts to each other to form the extension conduit around the one or more cables C. In general, it may apply that the method comprises forming the extension conduit 3 before partly inserting the extension conduit 3 into the short conduit 1. However, it is not inconceivable that the extension conduit 3 is formed by inserting individually the segmental parts 6 into the short conduit 1, to then form the extension conduit 3 by connecting these segmental parts 6. The advantage of selfclamping the extension conduit 3 into the short conduit 1 is that the worker who is transforming the short conduit 1 into the extended conduit 7 can, after self-clamping the extension conduit in the short conduit, keep both hands available for applying the sealant for attaching the extension conduit to the short conduit.

[0117] In practice, it may well be that the short conduit 1 is provided with a first sealing system prior to inserting the extension conduit 3. The method will then comprise removing the first sealing system before serting the extension conduit 3 into the short conduit 1. Unless, the short conduit 1 is a so- called blind conduit and thus without cables extending therethrough, in most cases also cables will already extend through the short conduit. Then the extension conduit 3 will be built, using the segmental parts 6, around those cables (not shown)

[0118] In those cases, the method may further comprise placing around at least a number of, and preferable around each of the cables, a rubber or rubber-like sleeve having a longitudinal slit for facilitating placement around a cable. It is recommended that the rubber or rubber-like sleeves are placed around the cables after forming the extended conduit.

[0119] Further, the remaining space in the extended conduit 7 is filled with rubber or rubber-like sleeves 22, as is shown in Fig 16.

[0120] As can be seen from Fig. 17 each end of the extended conduit 7 is provided with a sealant for sealing off each end of the extended conduit 7.

[0121] The extended conduit may externally be provided with thermal insulation.

[0122] The above explanation with reference to the drawings aims to assist in grasping and appreciating the disclosure of the system and the method beyond that what has explicitly been shown. It should also be borne in mind that the short conduit is short relative to the extended conduit, not necessarily short relative to the extension conduit. That is, the system can be designed and the method that is used can be employed to extend the short conduit by only little, for instance to just add enough length so that sealant layer can be applied of about 2 cm thickness in addition to the existing short conduit. It may be very practical, as is possible, that the method comprises inserting an extension conduit into each end of the short conduit, preferably up to at most half the length of the short conduit, so that the lengthening is distributed equally over the sides of the short conduit. This is especially useful when cable are already extending through the short conduit and just outside the conduit already bend away from the longitudinal direction of the conduit. It is possible that the extension conduits only extend the short conduit at each side by 5 or 6 cm, so that the overall length of the extended conduit will be 16 or 18 cm. This will allow the conduit to obtain a good fire rating without occupying too much additional space at each side of wall through which the conduit extends. Also when the space in the short conduit is prior to extending the conduit already almost fully used for cables extending through the conduit, it is after removal of the previous sealing system that relied on the use of a compression unit, still possible to draw more cables through the conduit, as the compression unit is no longer needed. The method in its broadest sense may thus also comprise enhancing the space available in the short conduit, simply by removing the compression unit and removing the previous sealing elements, such as the earlier referred to block system.

[0123] Also the extension conduit may be designed in many different ways. It is for instance possible that clampable portions and the insertable portion are alternating each other in a circumferential direction. It is even possible that only a clampable portion is provided. It is further possible that extension conduit in its broadest sense is formed using of sheet steel. The extension conduit may be formed out of one part of sheet steel, that is bent and / or folded, having ends that are connected to each other. More practical is that each segmental part is formed out of sheet steel that cut to size, and bent and / or folded. It is even possible that each segmental part comprises, or even consists of, single sheet steel that has been cut to size, and the bent and / or folded.

[0124] In fact, many variations are conceivable. The scope is derivable from the appended claims, not from the above description.

Claims

CLAIMS1 A method for transforming a short conduit into an extended conduit for having multiple cables extending therethrough and for being provided with a sealing system for sealing off the extended conduit, wherein the method comprises:• providing an extension conduit comprising an insertable end which is provided with at least one clampable portion, and wherein each clampable portion is self-clampable against an inner wall of the short conduit; and• inserting the insertable end into the short conduit and self-clamping the extension conduit against an inner wall of the short conduit.2 A method according to claim 1, wherein the insertable end is provided with an insertable portion which is configured to allow for self-centring of the extension conduit when the insertable end is inserted into the short conduit.3 A method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein inserting the insertable end into the short conduit for forming the extended conduit comprises self-clamping the extension conduit in the short conduit.4 A method according to claim 1, 2 or 3, where the method comprises after inserting the extension conduit into the short conduit, attaching the extension conduit to the short conduit.5 A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises attaching the extension conduit to the short conduit using a sealant.6 A method according to claim 5, wherein using a sealant comprises applying the sealant between an inner wall of the short conduit and a part of an outer wall of the extension conduit.7 A method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein providing the extension conduit comprises providing an extension conduit having a longitudinal direction along which a length of the extension conduit can be determined.8 A method according to claim 7, wherein providing the extension conduit comprises providing an extension conduit having at least one stopper for limiting insertion of the extension conduit into the short conduit, the stopper being at a predetermined longitudinal distance from the insertable end.9 A method according to claim 8, wherein the stopper is positioned so that at most a length of either about 3 cm or at most about 4.5 cm of the extension conduit is insertable into the short conduit.10 A method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the insertable end extends over a length which is in a range of about 3.0 to 4.5 cm in the longitudinal direction.11 A method according to claim 10, wherein in the longitudinal direction the clampable portion and the stopper are separated by a distance of a length that is in a range of about 1.0 to 2.5 cm.12 A method according to any one of claims 8 -11, wherein the sealant is applied between the inner wall of a short conduit and an outer wall of the extension conduit over a length that is between the clampable portion and the stopper.13 A method according to claim 12, wherein the sealant is applied uninterruptedly in a circumferential direction of the extension conduit.14 A method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the method comprises providing segmental parts for forming the extension conduit.15 A method according to claim 14, wherein providing segmental parts comprises providing an assembly of at least two segmental parts which in a connected condition form the extension conduit.16 A method according to claim 15, wherein each of the segmental parts comprises two connectable portions so that the segmental parts can be connected to each other for forming the extension conduit.17 A method according to claim 16, wherein the method comprises connecting the segmental parts to each other using at least one of a sealant, mechanical connection and a gasket.18 A method according to claim 16 or 17, wherein each connectable portion extends in the longitudinal direction, and comprises a lip which extends in a direction away from an inner volume of the extension conduit.19 A method according to claim 18, wherein at least one of the lips extends in lateral direction beyond the extent to which the clampable portion extends in lateral direction, so that the lip can act as the stopper referred to in claim 8 or 9.20 A method according to any one of claims 16-19, wherein in longitudinal direction the clampable portion and one of the connectable portions are separated over a distance have a length in a range of about 1.0 to 2.5 cm.21 A method according to any one of claims 18-19 or 20, wherein the system is provided with a gasket and the method further comprises placing the gasket between the lips of segmental parts that are being connected.22 A method according to claim 21, wherein placing the gasket comprises positioning the gasket so that it extends in longitudinal direction further toward the insertable end than the extent to which the lips extend in longitudinal direction toward the insertable end.23 A method according to any one of claims 14-22, wherein the segmental parts are identical.1A method according to anyone of the previous claims, wherein inserting the segmental parts into the short conduit comprises inserting the segmental parts into the short conduit over a length which is in a range of about 3.0 to 4.5 cm.A method according to each of the previous claims, wherein inserting an extension conduit into the short conduit comprises inserting an extension conduit into each end of the short conduit, up to at most half the length of the short conduit.A method according to any one of claims, wherein each extension conduit is provided with a wallpart of the extension conduit, wherein the wall-part is laterally offset inwardly relative to the position of the insertable end of the extension conduit.A method according to claim 26, wherein the extension conduit comprises a bracket between the insertable end and the wall-part of the extension conduit.A method according to claim 27, wherein the bracket is provided with a stiffener to maintain a lateral position of the clampable portion.A method according to claim 27 or 28, as far as dependent on claim 14, wherein the bracket is an integral part of each segmental part.A method according to anyone of the previous claims as far as dependent on claim 4 and on claim 16, wherein attaching the segmental parts to the short conduit using a sealant comprises applying the sealant after inserting the segmental parts into the conduit and between the clampable portion and one of the connectable portions, and between an outer wall of the extension conduit and an inner wall of the short conduit.A method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the clampable portion has an outer surface which when positioned for inserting of the insertable end into the short conduit by a linear movement of the extension conduit, is in lateral direction outside of a contour defined by an inner wall of the short conduit.A method according to claim 31, wherein the outer surface is provided with a cover for providing an electrically insulating material.A method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the insertable end is provided with an insertable portion which is relative to the clampable portion laterally inwardly bendable.A method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the clampable portion is configured to take in an uninserted condition a position that is laterally outwardly of a position in which the clampable portion makes contact with an inner wall of short conduit once the clampable portion has been inserted into the short conduit and / or wherein the insertable portion is configured to take in both an uninserted condition and in an inserted condition a position that is laterally inwardly of an inner wall of the short conduit.35 A method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the clampable portion has a stiffness which is higher than the stiffness of the insertable portion.36 A method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the short conduit and or the extension conduit is predominantly made of a metal or a metal alloy.37 A method according to anyone of the previous claims as far as dependent on claim 14, wherein at least one cable extends through the short conduit before the extension conduit is inserted into the short conduit, wherein the method comprises connecting the segmental parts to each other to form the extension conduit around the at least one cable.38 A method according to claim 37, wherein the method comprises forming the extension conduit before inserting the extension conduit into the short conduit.39 A method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the short conduit is provided with a first sealing system prior to party inserting the extension conduit into the short conduit, wherein the method comprises removing the first sealing system before inserting the extension conduit into the short conduit.40 A method according to any one of claims 37-39, wherein the method comprises placing around at least a number of, and preferable around each of the cables, a rubber or rubber-like sleeve having a longitudinal slit for facilitating placement around a cable.41 A method according to claim 40, wherein the rubber or rubber-like sleeves are placed around the cables after forming the extended conduit.42 A method according to claim 40 or 41, wherein remaining space in the extended conduit is filled with rubber or rubber-like sleeves.43 A method according to any one of the previous claims wherein each end of the extended conduit is provided with a sealant for sealing off each end of the extended conduit.44 A method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the extended conduit is externally provided with thermal insulation.45 A method according to any one of the previous claims where the method uses a system according to any one of the following claims 46-80.46 A system for transforming a short conduit into an extended conduit for having multiple cables extending therethrough and for being provided with a sealing system for sealing off the extended conduit, wherein the system comprises an extension conduit which has an insertable end for inserting into a short conduit, wherein the insertable end is provided with a clampable portion which is self-clampable against an inner wall of a short conduit.47 System according to claim 46, wherein the insertable end is provided with an insertable portion which is configured to allow for self-centring of the extension conduit when the insertable end is inserted into the short conduit.48 A system according to any one of claims 46 or 47, wherein the extension conduit has a circumferential direction along which a circumference of the conduit can be determined.49 A system according to any one of claims 46, 47 or 48, wherein the insertable end extends in an interrupted fashion in a direction along the circumferential direction of the extension conduit.50 A system according to anyone of claims 46-49 as far as including claim 48, wherein at least one of the insertable portion and the clampable portion extends in a direction along the circumferential direction of the extension conduit, in an uninterrupted or in an interrupted fashion.51 A system according to any one of claims 46-50, wherein the insertable end comprises corners which are spatially separated in circumferential direction, the corners optionally being free from a clampable portion, and optionally free from an insertable portion, and / or wherein the insertable end is entirely free from corners and in circumferential direction only extends along straight lines.52 A system according to any one of claims 46-51, wherein the extension conduit is provided with a wall-part of the extension conduit, wherein the wall-part is laterally offset inwardly relative to the insertable end.53 A system according to claim 52, wherein the extension conduit comprises at least one bracket between the insertable end and one of the wall-parts of the extension conduit.54 A system according to claim 53, wherein the bracket is provided with a stiffener to provide resistance against moving the clampable portion laterally inwardly relative to the wall-part.55 A system according to any one of claims 46-54 wherein the clampable portion has an outer lateral surface for pressing against an inner wall of a short conduit after insertion of the insertable end into the short conduit.56 A system according to claim 55, wherein at least the outer surface is provided with a cover for providing an electrically insulating material between an inner wall of the conduit and the material of the extension conduit.57 A system according to claim 56, wherein the cover is provided with a layer having low friction characteristics for facilitate inserting the extension conduit into the short conduit.58 A system according to any one of claims 46-57, wherein the insertable portion is relative to the clampable portion bendable laterally inwardly.59 A system according to any one of claims 46-58, wherein the clampable portion is configured to take in an uninserted condition a position that is laterally outward of an inserted position in whichthe clampable portion makes contact with an inner wall of short conduit into which the clampable portion has been inserted.60 A system according to any one of claims 46-59, wherein the clampable portion has a stiffness which is higher than the stiffness of the insertable portion.61 A system according to any one of claims 46-60, wherein the extension conduit has a longitudinal direction along which a length of the extension conduit can be determined.62 A system according to claim 61, wherein the extension conduit is provided with at least one stopper for stopping further insertion of extension conduit, the stopper being at a predetermined length from the clampable portion.63 A system according to claim 62, wherein the stopper is positioned so that at most a length of about 3 cm or at most about 4.5 cm of the extension conduit is insertable into the a short conduit.64 A system according to any one of the previous claims as far as dependent on claim 61, wherein the insertable end extends in the longitudinal direction over a range of about 3.0 cm to about 4.5 cm .65 A system according to claim 62, 63, or 64, wherein in longitudinal direction the clampable portion and the stopper are separated by distance which has a length in a range of about 1.0 to 2.5 cm.66 A system according to any one of claims 40-65, wherein the extension conduit is formed using an assembly of at least two segmental parts which in a connected condition form the extension conduit.67 A system according to claim 66, wherein each of the segmental parts comprises two connectable portions so that the segmental parts can be connected to each other for forming the extension conduit.68 A system according to claim 67, wherein each connectable portion has two sides extending in the longitudinal direction, wherein each side is provided with a lip which extends in a lateral direction away from an inner volume of the extension conduit.69 A system according to claim 68, wherein at least one of the lips extends in lateral direction beyond the extend to which the insertable end extends in lateral direction, so that the lip can act as the stopper referred to in claim 62 or 65.70 A system according to claim 67, wherein in longitudinal direction the clampable portion and the stopper are separated by distance which has a length in a range of about 1.0 to 2.5 cm71 A system according to any one of claims 67-70, wherein the system is provided with a gasket for placement between the two lips of segmental parts that are being connected.72 A system according to claim 71, wherein the gasket when positioned between the two lips extends further in the length direction further toward the insertable end than the extent to which the lips extend in the length direction toward the insertable end.73 A system according to any one of claims 67-72, wherein the segmental parts are identical.74 A system according to any one of the claims 69-73, wherein the system also comprises a sealant for attaching the extension conduit to the inner wall of the short conduit.75 A system according to claim 74, wherein the sealant is applicable between the inner wall of a short conduit and an outer wall of the extension conduit over a length that is between the clampable portion and the stopper.76 A system according to claim 75, wherein the sealant is applicable uninterruptedly in circumferential direction.77 A system according to any one of claims 46-76, wherein the extension conduit is of a metal or a metal alloy.78 A system according to any one of claims 46-77, wherein the system comprises at least a number of rubber or rubber-like sleeves having a longitudinal slit for facilitating placement around at least one cable and preferably around each cable that extends through the conduit.79 A system according to claim 78 wherein the system comprises a number of rubber or rubber-like sleeves for filling remaining space in the extended conduit.80 A system according to any one of claims 46-79, wherein the sealant is applicable for sealing off each end of the extended conduit.81 A system according to any of the previous as far as dependent on claim 66, wherein each segmental part comprises sheet steel that has been cut to size and that has been bent and / or folded.82 A system according to claim 81, wherein each segmental part consists of single sheet steel that has been cut to size and that has been bent and / or folded.83 A system according to claim 81 or 82, wherein holes are provided for engaging with connecting elements such as bolts and nuts.

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