A method for treating an end section of a conductor and a method of joining two end sections

Abstract

A method of treating an end section of a conductor is described. The method comprises providing a radially directed compressive force onto the conductor, (10) where a cone sleeve (1) with a conical frustum shaped inner surface is applied to surround the conductor (10), a collet (11) with a conical frustum shaped outer surface is applied to surround the conductor (10) between the cone sleeve (1) and the conductor (10) end and an axially directed force to pull and / or push the cone sleeve (1) at least partially onto the collet (11) is provided to provide the radially directed compressive force onto the conductor (10). Also, a method for joining two end sections of conductors (10) is described.

Description

[0001] P85018PC01

[0002] 1

[0003] A METHOD FOR TREATING AN END SECTION OF A CONDUCTOR

[0004] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0005] The invention relates to a method of treating an end section of a conductor as well as a conductor with a treated end section. The invention also relates to a method of providing a cable joint and a cable joint.

[0006] BACKGROUND ART

[0007] Treating of end section of conductors by providing a crimping of the conductor is well known in the art for example for establishing a suitable joint connection between cable elements, such as a joint between two or more cables or a joint between a cable and a cable terminal. In particular where the conductor is a stranded conductor it may be desired to crimp the conductor prior to establishing a cable joint. To reduce the risk of joint failures, many different methods and systems for treating a conductor to crimping the conductor has been attempted such as using sleeves or tools for performing the crimping.

[0008] DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

[0009] An objective of the present invention is to provide a method of treating an end section of a conductor to provide a long lasting crimping comprising a radially directed compressive force onto the conductor.

[0010] In an embodiment of the invention it is an objective to provide a method of crimping an end section of a conductor which is capable of maintaining the a radially directed compressive force onto the conductor even a relatively large temperature changes, such as temperature changes within from about minus zero °C to 100 °C or even from -10 °C to 120 °C or higher, such as 140 °C.

[0011] In an embodiment of the invention it is an objective to provide a method of crimping an end section of a conductor which is relatively simple to apply, and where the risk of crimping failure may be reduced or even avoided.

[0012] In an embodiment of the invention, it is an objective to provide a method of crimping an end section of a conductor which may be highly effective and ensuring a high crimping effect, preferably to remove a large percentage, of air located between conductor elements at the crimping length of the conductor, such as between strands of the conductor relative to the conductor in un-crimped stage, such as such P85018PC01

[0013] 2 as 10 % or more, such as 25 % or more, such as 50 % or more, such as 75 % or more, such as 90 % or more or even substantially all of the air located between conductor elements at the crimping length of the conductor, compared to the conductor prior to the crimping.

[0014] In an embodiment of the invention it is an objective to provide an end section of a conductor comprising a long lasting crimping comprising a radially directed compressive force onto the conductor, wherein the a radially directed compressive force preferably may be maintained for a long time even when subjected to a variation of temperatures, e.g. as mentioned above.

[0015] In an embodiment of a further aspect of the invention it is an objective to provide a cable joint and a method therefor, which has a long lifetime and very low risk of joint failure even when subjected to temperature changes.

[0016] In an embodiment of the further aspect of the invention it is an objective to provide a cable joint a method therefor, which has relatively simple to establish with a desired and long lasting connection pressure.

[0017] These and other objects have been solved by the inventions or embodiments thereof as defined in the claims and as described herein below.

[0018] It has been found that the inventions or embodiments thereof have a number of additional advantages, which will be clear to the skilled person from the following description.

[0019] The method of the invention comprises a method for treating an end section of a conductor, wherein the conductor comprises a conductor end and a plurality of conductor elements, wherein the method comprises providing a radially directed compressive force onto the conductor. The radially directed compressive force onto the conductor advantageously comprises providing a crimping of the conductor, comprising plastically deforming at least a part of the conductor, such as one or more of the conductor elements.

[0020] The method comprises

[0021] • providing a cone sleeve having an outer surface, a conical frustum shaped inner surface and a first cone sleeve end and a second cone sleeve end, wherein the first cone sleeve end has a larger inner circumference than the circumference of the second cone sleeve end; P85018PC01

[0022] 3

[0023] • applying the cone sleeve to surround the conductor with the first cone sleeve end located closer to the conductor end than the second cone sleeve end

[0024] • providing a collet having an inner surface, a conical frustum shaped outer surface and a first collet end and a second collet end, wherein the first collet end has a larger outer circumference than the circumference of the second collet end;

[0025] • applying the collet to surround the conductor between the cone sleeve and the conductor end and with the first collet end located closer to the end of the conductor than the second collet end; and

[0026] • applying an axially directed force to pull and / or push the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet to provide the radially directed compressive force onto the conductor.

[0027] The inventors of the present invention has found that a very effective and controllable radially directed compressive force onto the conductor may be provide by using a cone sleeve with a conical frustum shaped inner surface and a collet with a conical frustum shaped outer surface, wherein the cone sleeve is pulled or pushed onto the collet, preferably to plastically deform the collet, preferably while the cone sleeve is at least partially elastically deformed.

[0028] Thereby, when the treated conductor end section is subjected to changes in temperatures the radially directed compressive force onto the conductor may be maintained due to the elastically deformation of the cone sleeve which may elastically adapt to the changes of the conductor and the collet. The radially directed compressive force onto the conductor may thereby be very stable and may ensure a long lasting crimping of the conductor end section e.g. for providing a high quality and long lasting joint.

[0029] Generally it is preferred that the applying of the axially directed force comprises an axially directed force to pull and / or push the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet,

[0030] The terms conductor, conducting and other derivative thereof means herein electrical conductor, electrically conductive and etc.

[0031] It should be emphasized that the term “comprises / comprising” when used herein is to be interpreted as an open term, i.e. it should be taken to specify the presence of specifically stated feature(s), such as element(s), unit(s), integer(s), step(s) P85018PC01

[0032] 4 component(s) and combination(s) thereof, but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other stated features.

[0033] Reference made to “some embodiments” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature(s), structure(s), or characteristic(s) described in connection with such embodiment(s) is included in at least one embodiment of the subject matter disclosed. Thus, the appearance of the phrases “in some embodiments” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout the specification is not necessarily referring to the same embodiments). Further, the skilled person will understand that particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner within the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

[0034] Throughout the description or claims, the singular encompasses the plural unless otherwise specified or required by the context.

[0035] Unless other is specified, any properties, ranges of properties and / or determination and / or assay condition is given or provided at 20 °C.

[0036] Unless other is specified, any properties, ranges of properties and / or determination and / or assay condition is given or provided at 1 atmosphere.

[0037] All features of the invention and embodiments of the invention as described herein, including ranges and preferred ranges, may be combined in various ways within the scope of the invention, unless there are specific reasons not to combine such features.

[0038] The application of the axially directed force to pull and / or push the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet may comprise application of the force until at least one of the conductor and the collet has been plastic deformed.

[0039] There are several method of ensuring that the at least one of the conductor and the collet has been plastic deformed to a desired degree as it will be clear from the following.

[0040] In an embodiment, the application of the axially directed force to pull and / or push the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet comprises application of a selected force between the cone sleeve and the collet has been reached. The selected force may conveniently be a force that provides a deformation of the cone sleeve which deformation is at least 50 % elastic, such as at least 60 % elastic, such as at least 70 P85018PC01

[0041] 5

[0042] % elastic, such as at least 80 % elastic, such as at least 90 % elastic, such as at least 95 % elastic, such as at least 99 % elastic or even 100 % elastic.

[0043] This may for example be determined by providing one or more stress-strain curves of the materials of the cone sleeve and optionally the collet and / or the conductor.

[0044] It is well known that the stress-strain curve may be applied to determine the yield strength of a material and to determine a change of the respective curves when a yield point has been reached and the element starts to deform plastically.

[0045] Advantageously, the selected force may conveniently be a force that provides a deformation of the cone sleeve which deformation is at least 50 % elastic, such as at least 60 % elastic, such as at least 70 % elastic, such as at least 80 % elastic, such as at least 90 % elastic, such as at least 95 % elastic, such as at least 99 % elastic or even 100 % elastic. At the highest expected temperature that the conductor end section is expected to be subjected to, such as at 100 °C or higher, at 120 °C or higher or at 140 °C.

[0046] At lower temperatures, the yield strength of metals typically increases. The movement of dislocations is more difficult at low temperatures due to decreased atomic mobility. This makes metals more resistant to deformation,

[0047] As the temperature increases, the yield strength of most metals tends to decrease. This is because thermal energy increases the movement of atoms, making it easier for dislocations to move through the crystal lattice, which leads to plastic deformation. As a result, metals become more ductile and less resistant to deformation at higher temperatures.

[0048] To ensure that the cone sleeve maintains a elastically deformation to compensate for changes of the diameter of the conductor and / or the collet at the crimped length section, i.e. the length section covered by the collet and the cone sleeve, the elastically deformation of the cone sleeve may conveniently be determined at the highest expected temperature as mentioned above.

[0049] The length section covered by the collet and the cone sleeve is herein also referred to as the crimping length of the conductor end section. P85018PC01

[0050] 6

[0051] It has been found that the crimping at the conductor end section provided by the application of the axially directed force to pull and / or push the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet to provide the radially directed compressive force onto the conductor ensures that a large percentage of air located between conductor elements at the crimping length of the conductor prior to the performing of the crimping may effectively be removed by embodiments of the method.

[0052] Thus the method of embodiments of the invention may ensure removing a portion of air located between conductor elements at the crimping length of the conductor, wherein the portion of air removed preferably may comprise at least 10 % or more, such as 25 % or more, such as 50 % or more, such as 75 % or more, such as 90 % or more or even substantially all of the air located between conductor elements at the crimping length of the conductor, compared to the conductor prior to the crimping.

[0053] Advantageously, the cone sleeve comprises a cone metal having a yield strength, wherein the application of the axially directed force to pull the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet, produces a stress in the cone sleeve that is less than the yield strength of the cone material, preferably the cone material forms a load bearing portion of the cone sleeve. Thus the cone sleeve may comprise a coating or similar that are not considered to be load bearing.

[0054] In an embodiment, the collet comprises a collet metal having a yield strength, wherein the application of the axially directed force to move the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet produces a stress in the collet that increases than the yield strength of the collet material and thereby plastically deforms the collet. Preferably the collet material forms a load bearing portion of the collet.

[0055] In an embodiment, the application of the axially directed force to pull the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet comprises application of the force until the pressure required indicates that the yield point of the material of the cone sleeve has been reached and / or until the required force per mm of pulling the cone sleeve onto the collet changes more than previous changes of required force per mm, such as a decrease of required force.

[0056] Advantageously, the application of the axially directed force comprises pulling the cone sleeve fully onto the collet. Thereby the maximal effect of the collet and the P85018PC01

[0057] 7 cone sleeve may be used and the crimping length section may be the entire length of the cone sleeve.

[0058] In an embodiment, the application of the axially directed force comprises pulling the cone sleeve to a preselected location relative to the collet, such as a preselected location where the second end of the cone sleeve is closer to the conductor end than the second end of the collet.

[0059] In an embodiment, the application of the axially directed force to force applying at least a part of the force as a pushing force toward a second cone sleeve end edge and / or by applying at least a part of the force as a pulling force by pulling the cone sleeve e.g. via one or more recesses in the cone sleeve, while simultaneously holding the collet in fixed position. Optionally the holding the collet in fixed position is performed by providing a mechanical stop e.g. provided temporarily or permanently.

[0060] It has been found to be preferred to apply the axially directed force to comprise a pulling force to pull the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet to provide the radially directed compressive force onto the conductor.

[0061] Advantageously, the applying of the axially directed force is performed without applying any torque and / or twisting forces, since such torque and / or twisting forces may result in undesired twists of the conductor elements, in particular where the conductor comprises many conductor elements.

[0062] Advantageously, the applying of the axially directed force may be performed without applying one or more elements that contribute to increasing an external diameter of the finally treated end section beyond the outer diameter of the cone sleeve. Temporally, applying one or more elements during the establishment of the crimping length of the conductor end section may however be desired as described below.

[0063] To ensure that the force applied to move the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet does not result in an undesired plastically deformation e.g. by expansion of the cone sleeve, the method may advantageously comprise providing a temporarily circumferential encasing, such as e.g. using an encasing muff to surround at least a length portion of the cone sleeve during the application of the axially directed force. The temporarily circumferential encasing may have the function of restricting expansion of the cone sleeve beyond a preselected level to thereby avoid the undesired plastically deformation of the cone sleeve. The preselected level may conveniently corresponds to an increase of the diameter of the cone sleeve which P85018PC01

[0064] 8 ensures a deformation within the elastically range, i.e. to a level not increasing the yield strength of the load bearing material of the cone sleeve. The preselected level may conveniently comprise an increase of an average (or maximal) outer diameter of the cone sleeve of up to 5 %, such as up to 2 %, such as up to 1 %.

[0065] The encasing may for example comprises an encasing muff, such as an encasing muff of a clamping tool.

[0066] In an embodiment, the application of the axially directed force to pull and / or push the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet may be performed using a clamping tool, wherein the method comprising removing the tool when the axially directed force to pull and / or push the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet, such as fully or partially, onto the collet has been performed.

[0067] In an embodiment, the temporarily circumferential encasing is removed when the axially directed force to pull and / or push the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet, such as fully or partially, onto the collet has been performed.

[0068] The application of the axially directed force to pull and / or push the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet may preferably be performed using a clamping tool, preferably a clamping tool adapted for providing the pulling force. The clamping tool may preferably comprise

[0069] • a holding flange adapted to engage with the collet at the first collet end to provide a mechanical stop;

[0070] • a pressure flange adapted to engage with the cone sleeve for applying the pulling pressure; and

[0071] • preferably an encasing muff adapted for providing a temporarily circumferential encasing of at least a length portion of the cone sleeve during the application of the axially directed force.

[0072] The clamping tool may advantageously be a hydraulic operating tool and may conveniently be adapted for applying a relatively high and controllable pulling force, such as a pulling force of at least about 10 kN, such as at least about 20 kN, such as at least about 30 kN.

[0073] To ensure a desired and balanced grip in the cone sleeve, the outer surface of the cone sleeve may preferably be formed to comprise at least one external recess and the clamping tool comprises a clamping jaw comprising at least one gripping P85018PC01

[0074] 9 protrusion adapted for engaging with the external recess(es) of the cone sleeve. Preferably the external recess comprises an annular or semi-annular external recess and the least one gripping protrusion of the clamping jaw corresponds to the at least one external annular or semi-annular recess of the cone sleeve.

[0075] The clamping tool conveniently comprises a controller for controlling and / or adjusting the applied pulling force for generating the axially directed force to pull the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet. Preferably the clamping tool is adapted for controlling and / or adjusting the applied pulling force to ensure that the load bearing metal of the cone sleeve is elastically deformed, such as elastically deformed to at least 10 % of its yield strength at 120 °C, such as to at least 50 %, such as to at least 75 % of its yield strength at 120 °C, such as from 10 % to 100 % of its yield strength at 120 °C, such as from 25 % to 99 % of its yield strength at 120 °C.

[0076] The clamping tool beneficially comprises the encasing muff, such as the encasing muff described above adapted for providing a temporarily circumferential encasing of at least a length portion of the cone sleeve during the application of the axially directed force. The encasing muff may preferably have an internal diameter corresponding to an external diameter of the encased portion of the cone sleeve in unloaded condition and wherein the clamping tool comprises a sensor adapted for sensing a radially outwards pressure applied onto the encasing muff during the application of the axially directed force to pull the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet. There it may be ensured that the cone sleeve is not deformed by expansion beyond a desired level e.g. to minimize the risk of plastically deform the cone sleeve, while simultaneously ensuring a desired elastically deformation of the cone sleeve.

[0077] The encasing muff may conveniently be adapted for clamping the cone sleeve, when the cone sleeve has reached a preselected radial expansion, such as a radial expansion of 2% or less, such as a radial expansion of 1 % or less. Thereby the further added force may be transferred to the collet and / or some or all of the conducting elements of the conductor.

[0078] In an embodiment, the pulling of the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet provides an at least partially plastic crimping of a portion of the conductor encased by the collet and the cone sleeve. Advantageously, a length section of the collet adapted to be covered by the sleeve, has an average outer diameter larger than the average inner diameter of the cone sleeve. Thereby providing that the length section P85018PC01

[0079] 10 of the collet when covered by the cone sleeve is deformed and is crimping the encased portion of the conductor. Preferably the method comprises pulling the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet to provide the radially directed compressive force to plastically deform the collet and preferably to plastically deform at least some of the conductor elements of the conductor.

[0080] Advantageously, the conductor elements of the conductor comprises multiple elongate elements, such as wires and / or strands.

[0081] The conductor may preferably form part of an electric cable adapted for subsea applications and / or for underground applications.

[0082] The cable may be an AC cable or a DC cable, preferably a high voltage AC cable (HVAC) or a high voltage DC cable (HVDC).

[0083] In an embodiment the conductor is adapted for a medium voltage cable (1 kV-35 kV), a high voltage cable (35 kv- 230 kV), an extra high voltage cable (230 kV- 800 kV) and / or an ultra-high voltage cable (>800 kV).

[0084] The conductor may advantageously be a stranded conductor and / or a Milliken conductor, preferably comprising at least 5 conductor elements, such as from 10 - 1000 conductor elements or more, such as from 19 to 100 conductor elements. Usually a Milliken conductor may comprises 2-6 segments, each segment comprising a plurality of conductor elements, such a 25 or more, such a 40-100 conductor elements

[0085] In an embodiment, the conductor is a Milliken type conductor comprising segments of conductor elements, preferably at least 3 segments, such as 4-6 segments.

[0086] In an embodiment, the elements of the conductor comprises cross-sectional round stranded conductor elements, cross-sectional oval stranded conductor elements, cross-sectional compacted stranded conductor elements and / or cross-sectional profiled stranded conductor elements, such as keystone shaped conductor elements, optionally the cable is of the Milliken type comprising sections of stranded conductor elements.

[0087] The keystone shaped conductor elements may preferably have a trapezoidal crosssection. The trapezoidal cross-section of the conductor elements may ensure that the keystone shaped conductor elements fit together little or practically no air between wires, thereby increasing space factor and improving electrical efficiency. P85018PC01

[0088] 11

[0089] In an embodiment, the pulling of the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet comprises plastically deforming at least a number of the multiple elongate elements of the conductor, such as at least some of, or all of circumferentially outermost multiple elongate elements in physical contact with the collet are plastically deformed.

[0090] The cone sleeve may have a length along an axis of the cone sleeve extending between the first cone sleeve end and the second cone sleeve end, wherein the conical frustum shaped inner surface of the cone sleeve is gradually decreasing from the first cone sleeve end to the second cone sleeve end, such as gradually decreasing with an average angle to a center axis of the cone sleeve which is up to up to 30 degrees, such as up to 15 degrees, such as from 1 to 25 degrees, such as from 5 to 10 degrees. The inner surface of the cone sleeve optionally comprises a rounded length section adjacent to the first cone sleeve end, where the gradually decreasing is less than further from the first cone sleeve end. Such rounded length section may make it easier to pull the cone sleeve onto the collet.

[0091] The outer surface of the cone sleeve may conveniently be substantially constant along the length of the cone sleeve, optionally except for one or more recesses, e.g. as described elsewhere herein.

[0092] The cone sleeve may in principle have any length, preferably a length of at least 2 cm. A very long length of the cone sleeve may be difficult to handle. Preferably, the length of the cone sleeve in unloaded condition is from 2 -20 cm, such as from 3 to 10 cm, such as from 1 to 20 times, e.g. 2 to 10 times the conductor diameter in unloaded condition.

[0093] In an embodiment, the cone sleeve has a cone sleeve pressing surface at the first cone sleeve end. As described below, the cone sleeve pressing surface may be applied to hold the conductor pressed towards another conductor as described further below,

[0094] The collet may have a length along an axis of the collet extending between the first collet end and the second collet end. Advantageously, the conical frustum shaped outer surface of the collet is gradually decreasing from the first collet end to the second collet end, such as gradually decreasing with an average angle to a center axis of the collet which is up to up to 30 degrees, such as up to 15 degrees, such as from 1 to 25 degrees, such as from 5 to 10 degrees, wherein the outer surface of P85018PC01

[0095] 12 the collet optionally comprises a rounded length section adjacent to the second collet end, where the gradually decreasing is less than further from the second collet end. Such rounded length section may make it easier to pull the cone sleeve onto the collet.

[0096] The length of the collet may conveniently be from 2-30 cm, preferably the length of the collet is longer than the length of the cone sleeve, such as at least 10 % longer, such as at least 50 % longer than the cone sleeve.

[0097] To provide a desired compressibility of the collet, to ensure a desired crimping of the conductor, the collet map preferably comprise a plurality of slot. The preferably of clots may preferably extend to a collet end to ensure that the collet is relatively simple to be deformed. Advantageously, each slot, individually of each other extends from one of the first collet end and the second collet end to a distance from the other one of the first collet end and the second collet end. Preferably at least one of the plurality of slots is a type A slot extending from the first collet end and to a distance from the second collet end and / or at least one of the plurality of slots is a type B slot extending from the second collet end and to a distance from the first collet end.

[0098] The collet may preferably comprise an even number of slots, such as from 2 to 20 slots, such as 2, 4, 6, 8 or 10 slots, preferably the slots are located with a substantially equal average distance between adjacent slots of the plurality of slots.

[0099] In an embodiment the collet comprises at least 2 type A slots.

[0100] In an embodiment the collet comprises at least 2 type B slots.

[0101] In an embodiment the collet comprises an equal number of A types slots and B type slots, preferably located alternating in the circumference of the collet.

[0102] When the collet is in unloaded condition i.e. before pulling and / or pushing the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet, each of the plurality of slots individually of each preferably has a slot width, which may be equal or different along the length of the slot. Preferably the slot with is substantially equal along the length of the respective slots.

[0103] The slots may preferably have a maximal width of up to a diameter (or average diameter) of the multiple elongate elements of the conductor. Thereby it may be ensured that the elongate elements do not engage with the slots. P85018PC01

[0104] 13

[0105] In an embodiment, the method comprises inserting at least one conductor fitting at least partially in between the multiple elongate elements of the conductor from a first end-face of the conductor comprising providing a portion of the conductor fitting to be located at a cross-sectional location of the conductor surrounded by or adapted to be surrounded by the collet.

[0106] Each of the at least one conductor fitting may conveniently comprise an apex for easing the insertion. The inserting of the at least one conductor fitting may comprise bringing the apex of the conductor fitting in contact with the end-face of the conductor and pressing the conductor fitting in between the multiple elongate elements of the conductor to plastically deform at least some of the multiple elongate elements of the conductor.

[0107] In an embodiment, the conductor fitting comprises a threaded length section and a head for inserting the conductor fitting by turning it in between the multiple elongate elements.

[0108] Whereas it has been found that the multiple elongate elements of the conductor located furthest from the conductor axis may be plastically deformed to a desired degree by the axially directed force applied by the collet and the cone sleeve, the multiple elongate elements located closer to the axis of the conductor may not be deformed to a desired degree by the axially directed force applied by the collet and the cone sleeve alone. By further inserting the at least one conductor fitting at least partially in between the multiple elongate elements, the multiple elongate elements located closer to the axis of the conductor may be deformed to a desired degree e.g. to remove a large percentage of the air between the multiple elongate elements.

[0109] Thereby, it may be simpler to crimp the conductor to a desired degree.

[0110] Advantageously, the conductor fitting has a cross-sectional area that is gradually enlarging from the apex and at least to a distance from the apex, such as to a distance corresponding to at least 50 %, such as at least 75 % of the inserting distance.

[0111] In an embodiment, the inserting of the at least one conductor fitting comprises inserting the conductor fitting between the multiple elongate elements at the center axis of the conductor. P85018PC01

[0112] 14

[0113] In an embodiment, the inserting of the at least one conductor fitting comprises inserting a plurality of conductor fittings, preferably the plurality of conductor fittings are inserted in a cross sectional symmetrical pattern.

[0114] Advantageously, the method comprises inserting at least an inserting length section of the at least one conductor fitting, wherein the inserting length section is at least one cm, such as at least 2 cm, such as preferably at least 50 % of the length of the collet, such as at least the length of the collet, such as longer than the length of the collet, such as up to 200 %, such as up to 150 % of the length of the collet.

[0115] The plurality of conductor fittings may be equal or different and may be inserted with equal or different inserting length.

[0116] In an embodiment, the at least one conductor fitting is shaped as a right circular cone, e.g. with the apex at the center axis of the cone and directly above a center of a circular base.

[0117] In an embodiment, the inner surface of the collet in unloaded condition has a circumference that is constant along the length of the collet or is gradually decreasing from the first collet end to the second with an average angle to a center axis of the cone fitting which is up to 10 degrees, such as from 0.1 degree to 5 degrees. Thereby the collet may be shaped to allow space for the conductor fittings.

[0118] The conductor fitting may in principle be inserted at any stage of the treatment

[0119] The inserting of the at least one conductor fitting may be performed prior to, simultaneously with or after application of the pulling force, and / or prior to, simultaneously with or after one or more of the steps

[0120] • providing the cone sleeve;

[0121] • applying the cone sleeve to surround the released conductor;

[0122] • providing the collet and / or

[0123] • applying the collet.

[0124] Advantageously the insertion of the conductor fitting(s) is performed after the pulling / pushing of the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet,

[0125] It has been found that for some conductors, where the crimping at the conductor end section has been provided by the application of the axially directed force to pull and / or push the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet to provide the radially P85018PC01

[0126] 15 directed compressive force onto the conductor, may result in that the conductor elements in the crimped length section may tend to slip when subjected to axial loads that a cable comprising the conductor and an assembled joint thereof are expected to be exposed to during operation. This is especially the case where the conductor elements comprises profiled conductor elements with low or none selflocking properties, such as keystone shaped conductor elements and / or where the conductor elements are have a cross-sectional shape with at least two opposite sides which have straight or slightly concave shape e.g. with a concavity less than or corresponding to a curve of a concentric circle at the distance of the respective conductor elements to the center axis.

[0127] It has been found that for such conductor elements with low or none self-locking properties it may be difficult to provide a transfer of radial forces to the center of the conductor.

[0128] It has been found that this problem may be solved by inserting at least one support structure to be located between conductor elements of the conductor at the end section of the conductor.

[0129] The support structure advantageously comprises or consisting of one or more materials having a Vickers hardness of at least 15 HV, such as at least 17 HV, such as at least 20 HV, such as at least 30 HV, such as at least 40 HV.

[0130] The support structure is advantageously of non-magnetic material.

[0131] In an embodiment, the support structure comprises a material or consists of one or more materials having a Vickers hardness which is at least as high as the Vickers hardness of at least one of the conductor elements. Preferably, the support structure comprises a material having a Vickers hardness which is at least 2 HV, such as at least 5 HV, such as at least 10 HV higher than the Vickers hardness of at least one of the conductor elements.

[0132] Preferably, the support structure comprises or consist of one or more materials having a Vickers hardness, which is at least as high as or preferably higher than the Vickers hardness of at one of the contacting, such as physically contacting conductor elements, which the support structure is or will be in contact with after the cone sleeve has been pulled and / or pushed at least partially onto the collet. P85018PC01

[0133] 16

[0134] Advantageously, the one or more materials of the support structure which is or will be in contact with one or more of the conductor elements after the cone sleeve has been pulled and / or pushed at least partially onto the collet has / have a Vickers hardness at least as high as the one or more conductor elements that will be in contact with the one or more materials of the support structure.

[0135] Advantageously, the support structure is entirely of a material having a hardness of at least 15 HV such as at least 17 HV, such as at least 20 HV, such as at least 30 HV, such as at least 40HV. Preferably the support structure is entirely of a material having a Vickers hardness, which is at least as high as the Vickers hardness of at least one of the conductor elements, which the support structure is or will be in contact with after the cone sleeve has been pulled and / or pushed at least partially onto the collet.

[0136] Examples of suitable materials for the support structure comprises at least one of an aromatic thermosetting polymer, such as polyimides (PI), polybenzimidazole (PBI) and / or bismaleimides (BMI); a crystalline fluoropolymer, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), ethylene chlorotrifluoroethylene (ECTFE) and / or polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), thermoplastics selected from polyether ether ketone (PEEK), Polyetherimide (PEI) and / or), Polyphenylene sulfide (PPS); and / or ultra-high Hardness Thermosets, such as epoxy resins, phenolics and / or melamine- formaldehyd.

[0137] In an embodiment, the support structure comprises a polymer filled with at least one of glass fibers, carbon fibers, basalt fibers, ceramic particles and / or carbon nanotubes.

[0138] In an embodiment, the support structure comprises a metal, such as aluminum, titanium and / or an alloy, such as stainless steel, preferably austenitic stainless steel.

[0139] In an embodiment, the support structure comprises a metal coated with a polymer e.g. one or more of the above mentioned polymers.

[0140] The support structure may have many shapes, preferably comprising at least one string and / or a wire and / or a mesh of one or more string and / or wires.

[0141] The thickness of the support structure, such as of the strip and / or wire may conveniently be at least 0.01 mm, such as at least 0.1 mm, such as from 0.5 to 2 mm. P85018PC01

[0142] 17

[0143] In an embodiment, the support structure comprises a wire shaped as a coil, such as a helical coil.

[0144] In an embodiment, the support structure comprises a mesh strip and or a mesh tube section.

[0145] It has been found that the above phenomenon is observed where the conductor comprises two or more layers of conductor elements, preferably wound to surround an axis of the conductor, wherein the respective conductor elements preferably may haw a cross-sectional shape selected from round, oval and / or profiled, such as keystone shaped having a trapezoidal cross-section.

[0146] In an embodiment, the conductor comprises at least two layers of the conductor elements helically wound to surround an axis of the conductor and wherein the inserting at least one support structure to be located between conductor elements of the conductor at the end section of the conductor comprises inserting the at least one support structures between said at least two layers of the conductor elements, preferably comprising inserting a support structure between each layer of conductor elements of the at least two layers of the conductor elements.

[0147] The conductor elements of a layer of conductor elements may conveniently be wound with a pitch of 5-15 times the outer diameter of the layer of the conductor elements.

[0148] The layer of conductor elements may comprise cross wound layers of conductors or same -direction wound layers of conductors.

[0149] In an embodiment, the inserting of the at least one support structure to be located between conductor elements at the end section of the conductor comprises inserting the at least one support structure to provide that at least a portion of the at least one support structure is located at a cross-sectional location of the conductor surrounded by or adapted to be surrounded by the collet.

[0150] In an embodiment, the method comprises inserting at least a support length section of the at least one conductor support structure, wherein the support length section is at least one cm, such as at least 2 cm, such as preferably at least 50 % of the length of the collet, such as at least the length of the collet, such as longer than the length of the collet, such as up to 200 %, such as up to 150 % of the length of the collet. P85018PC01

[0151] 18

[0152] Advantageously, the inserting of the at least one support structure to be located between conductor elements of the conductor at the end section of the conductor is performed prior to or simultaneously with application of the pulling force.

[0153] Preferably the inserting of the at least one support structure to be located between conductor elements of the conductor at the end section of the conductor is performed prior to, simultaneously with or after one or more of the steps

[0154] • providing the cone sleeve;

[0155] • applying the cone sleeve to surround the released conductor;

[0156] • providing the collet and / or

[0157] • applying the collet.

[0158] To ensure sufficient space between the conductor elements, the support structure may preferably be inserted after having applied the cone sleeve to surround the conductor but prior to applying the collet,

[0159] The conductor may comprise of any suitable conductive material and combinations thereof as well as insulating material surrounding the individual of the multiple elongate elements.

[0160] In an embodiment, the conductor is selected from an aluminum conductor, a copper conductor a zinc conductor, a steel conductor or any combinations thereof.

[0161] The collet, the cone sleeve and the at least one conductor fitting, individually of each other may comprise one or more metals, preferably load bearing metals, optionally coated with a protection layer.

[0162] One or more of the collet and the cone sleeve may conveniently be coated with lubrication such as grease, oil and / or a dry lubrication, such as PTFE or graphite, optionally the conductor fitting(s) is are coated with a lubrication. Thereby, the friction between the cone sleeve and the collet may be reduced during the pulling of the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet.

[0163] The provide a flat end face of the conductor, the method preferably comprises cutting of optionally portions extending beyond the first end of the cone sleeve to provide a plane end face suitable for forming a cable joint, such as portions of the P85018PC01

[0164] 19 collet not covered by the cone sleeve and / or portions of the conductor fitting not inserted between the multiple elongate elements.

[0165] The cone may conveniently be anodized / oxidized for corrosion protection.

[0166] The conductor end may preferably form part of a cable end section and the method comprises stripping the conductor from insulation at the end section of the cable prior to application of the cone sleeve. The cable may be any kind of cable preferably comprising a conductor comprising multiple elongate elements. Preferably the cable is a HV cable.

[0167] In an embodiment, the method for treating the end section of the conductor comprises preparing an end-face of the conductor for being joined, comprising preparing the end face to be entirely plane, preferably to have a RA roughness of less than about 10 pm, such as of less than 5 pm pm, such as of 1 pm or less.

[0168] The method for treating the end section of the conductor may preferably comprise preparing an end-face of the conductor for being joined e.g. with at least one other cable or with a cable terminal. The preparation for being joined may conveniently comprise providing the conductor to have a pretreated end-face, comprising subjecting the end-face of the conductor to a cold spray procedure comprising building a metallic coating onto the end-face of the conductor using a cold spray procedure.

[0169] The cold deposition process may preferably comprise comprises a cold spray process, such as a cold spray process described in US11 ,469, 161 and / or US11 ,909, 161.

[0170] Example of a cold spray process is further indicated in figure 5.

[0171] The process of cold deposition may in an embodiment comprise the use of particles of a size, weight and with a velocity selected such that the impingement of the deposited particles onto a surface of a deposition area, provides that the particles breaks a potential oxide layers on the surface of the deposition area.

[0172] Advantageously, the deposited particles provide a deposited layer made of a substantially metallic material and where the volume and shape of the deposited layer and the conductivity of the deposited material being such, that the deposited layer has a current carrying capacity that is compatible with a current carrying P85018PC01

[0173] 20 capacity of the metallic sheaths of the cable elements to be connected, such as the HV-cables to be connected.

[0174] Cold spraying may provide such a process that typically, assuming right material composition, high enough speed of particles and particle temperature, breaks the oxide surface layers at the surface of deposition and creates a seal of high electrical conductivity.

[0175] In an embodiment, the cold deposition process comprises deposition of particles comprising metal particles at a deposition area at a velocity sufficiently high to penetrate a potential oxide layer located at the deposition area.

[0176] The invention also comprises a method of providing a cable joint between respective end sections of two cable end sections each cable end section comprises a conductor, the method comprises

[0177] • preparing the end section of each of two cables comprising releasing the conductor from insulation at the end section of the cable and applying a cone sleeve to surround the released conductor at end section of the cable;

[0178] • providing a set of shells for a connector ferrule, wherein each shell of the set of shells comprises a longitudinal curved segment of an annular wall forming the connector ferrule and having two opposite ends, each having a compressing flange extending radially inwards to provide oppositely located openings for the respective end sections of the cables, wherein the compressing flange comprises at least one through hole.

[0179] • providing a plurality of fastener sets, wherein each of the fastener sets is adapted to be applied through each of the through holes of the sets of shells;

[0180] • applying the prepared end sections of the two cables into at least one of the shells to provide that the end-faces of the respective conductors are facing towards each other and that the cone sleeve of the respective prepared end sections are located inside the at least one shell and with respective cone sleeve pressing surfaces facing towards the respective radially inwards extending compression flanges; and

[0181] • assembling the set of shells to form the connector ferrule and applying a pressure towards the respective pressing surfaces of the respective cone sleeves, by the respective fastener sets applied through the through holes of the of the set of shells; P85018PC01

[0182] 21 wherein each fastener sets comprises a compression spring arrangement, arranged to exert and maintain the pressure applied towards the respective pressing surfaces of the respective cone sleeves.

[0183] The inventors has found that by providing and using fastener sets, each comprising a compression spring arrangement, the compression spring arrangement may be arranged to exert and maintain the pressure applied towards the respective pressing surfaces of the respective cone sleeves. Thereby the pressure applied to hold the conductors in a desired electrical connection, i.e. the pressure towards the respective pressing surfaces of the respective cone sleeves, may be controlled and maintained even where the joint is subjected to changes of temperature, such as changes in temperatures as described above e.g. in the interval for -10 °C to 120 °C or even larger temperatures e.g. from -20 °C to 140 °C.

[0184] In an embodiment, the applying of the pressure towards the respective pressing surfaces of the respective cone sleeves comprises, tightening each ofthe respective fastener sets. Preferably each fastener set comprises a nut; a pressure piston arrangement with a pressure surface and the above mentioned compression spring arrangement. The tightening of each of the respective fastener sets may comprise tightening the nut to press the pressure surface of the pressure piston arrangement towards the respective pressing surfaces of the respective cone sleeves, while simultaneously providing a compression of the compression spring arrangement.

[0185] Advantageously, the tightening of the nut comprises a first tightening stage comprising mowing the pressure piston of the pressure piston arrangement to provide that the pressure surface of the pressure piston touches one of the respective pressing surfaces of the respective cone sleeves; and a second tightening stage comprising compressing the compression spring arrangement to a desired degree to ensure a desired exerted pressure for providing a the pressure towards the respective pressing surfaces of the respective cone sleeve, such that the compressed compression spring arrangement is sufficient compressed to maintain the pressure for long time even at varying temperatures.

[0186] Advantageously, each of the through holes of the sets of shells comprises a threaded annular edge facing an axis of the through hole, and wherein the nut comprises a nut shaft having a first nut end and a second nut end and an externally threaded nut shaft section in at least a length section of the nut located between the first nut end and the second nut end, wherein the thread of the externally threaded P85018PC01

[0187] 22 nut shaft are adapted to engage with the threaded annular edge of at least one of the through holes. Thereby the fastener sets may be held safely in their respective through holes of the set of shells

[0188] The method preferably comprise applying each of the fastener sets through each of the respective through holes of the sets of shells prior to applying the respective prepared end sections of the two cables into at least one of the shells. Preferably the fastener sets through each of the respective through holes is in an at least partially untightened stage allowing applying the respective prepared end sections of the two cables into at least one of the shells with the at least partially untightened fastener set(s).

[0189] The applying of each of the fastener sets through each of the respective through holes of the sets preferably comprises engaging the thread of the externally threaded nut shaft of the fastener set with the threaded annular edge of at least one of the through holes and at least partially threading the nut into the through hole.

[0190] The pressure piston arrangement advantageously comprises a pressure piston having the pressure surface and comprising a pressure piston support structure. The pressure piston support structure may advantageously comprise a surface located opposite to the pressure piston pressure surface. In an embodiment, the pressure piston support structure comprises a recess for the compression spring arrangement.

[0191] The nut may comprise a nut support structure at the second nut end, wherein the compression spring arrangement is located between the nut support structure and the pressure piston support structure. The nut support structure may advantageously comprise a surface facing towards the pressure piston support structure surface. In an embodiment, the nut support structure comprises a recess for the compression spring arrangement.

[0192] In an embodiment, the pressure piston arrangement comprising a locking screw with an externally threaded screw shaft and the nut comprises an internally threaded nut shaft section adapted to engage with the threaded screw shaft of the locking screw. The internally threaded nut shaft section is preferably located adjacent to the first nut end. Preferably, the locking screw is at least partially tightened into the internally threaded nut shaft section prior to tightening of the fastener set. P85018PC01

[0193] 23

[0194] The threads of the externally threaded screw shaft of the locking screw and of the internally threaded nut shaft are advantageously oriented such that when tightening the nut into the threaded through hole the externally threaded screw shaft of the locking screw and of the internally threaded nut shaft are at least partially untightened.

[0195] In an embodiment, the tightening of each of the of the respective fastener sets comprises tightening the nut into the threaded through hole until the pressure surface of the pressure piston reaches the pressing surface of the cone sleeve and until the compression spring arrangement is at least partially compressed.

[0196] The tightening of each of the respective fastener sets may preferably comprise untightening the nut at least partially from the externally threaded screw shaft of the locking screw.

[0197] The locking screw and the pressure piston of the pressure piston arrangement may advantageously be mutually displaceable relative to a nut shaft axis. Preferably the locking screw and the pressure piston are separate elements. In an alternative embodiment the locking screw and the pressure piston are integrated parts with a flexible interconnection allowing the mutually displacement.

[0198] The locking screw may preferably have a locking screw head which is visible externally to the connector ferrule. It has been found to be very valuable to provide that the location of the locking screw head to be adapted for indicating a tightening stage and / or a compression stage of the compression spring arrangement.

[0199] The compression spring arrangement may advantageously comprise at least one compression spring with a desired high load capacity and preferably with a relatively small deflection. The compression spring arrangement may advantageously comprise at least one disc spring and / or a spring washer.

[0200] In an embodiment, the compression spring arrangement comprises at least one disc spring such as a stack of disc springs. Advantageously, the disc spring or stack of disc springs is adapted for supporting a relatively large load while taking up minimal space.

[0201] The disc spring or stack of disc springs may advantageously meet one or both of the standards the DIN EN 16983 and ISO 19690:2017. P85018PC01

[0202] 24

[0203] Preferably the compression spring arrangement comprises a stack of discs, such as a stack of at least 4 disc springs, such as from 2 to 50 disc springs, such as from 5 to 25 disc springs

[0204] The set of shells may I principle comprise any number of shells, however to simplify the assembling the set of shells to form the connector ferrule, the set of shells preferably comprises at most two shells, such as at most 3 shells. Preferably the set of shells comprises two semi-annular shells. The two semi-annular shells may conveniently be identical.

[0205] In an embodiment, the method comprises applying an electrically conductive element between the end-faces of the respective conductors prior to assembling the set of shells, preferably the electrically conductive element is a flex element, wherein the flex element comprises an embossed metal plate, preferably consisting of silver and / or copper.

[0206] The preparing the end section of each of two cables may for example be according to prior art methods, e.g. as described in US11 ,469,161 and / or US11 ,909,161 .

[0207] Advantageously, the preparing the end section of at least one of the end sections of the two cables is performed fully or partially according to the method described above.

[0208] To ensure a safe insulation, the method may preferably comprises providing an insulation to surround the connector ferrule. Advantageously. The method also comprises providing a water tight sealing to surround the connector ferrule e.g. as described in US 20190190245 and / or in DK PA 2023 70442.

[0209] The invention also comprises a conductor comprising an end section comprising a conductor end and a plurality of conductor elements, wherein end section of the conductor comprises a plastically deformed collet at least partially surrounded by an elastically deformed cone sleeve.

[0210] The conductor may preferably be as described above.

[0211] The invention also comprises a cable joint between respective end sections of two cable end sections each cable end section comprises a conductor, wherein the cable joint comprises a connector ferrule assembled from a set of shells, and having two opposite ends, each having a compressing flange extending radially inwards, P85018PC01

[0212] 25 defining oppositely located openings and wherein the compressing flange comprises a plurality of through holes each comprising a though going fastener set,

[0213] Each of two cables comprises a conductor that is released from insulation at the end section of the cable, wherein the released conductor comprises a cone sleeve to surrounding the conductor and with respective pressing surfaces facing towards the respective radially inwards extending compression flanges; and where the end sections of the two cables are located within the connector ferrule via the defining oppositely located openings of the connector ferrule to form an electrical connection between the respective conductors of the two cables, optionally via an electrically conducting element, such as a flex element. Each fastener sets comprises a compression spring arrangement exerting and maintaining a pressure applied towards the respective pressing surfaces of the respective cone sleeves pressing the conductors towards each other to form the cable joint.

[0214] The cable joint may preferably be as described above.

[0215] DECRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENT, EXAMPLES AND ELEMENT ILLUSTRATING THE INVENTION

[0216] Brief description of preferred embodiments and elements of the invention.

[0217] The above and / or additional objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be further elucidated by the following illustrative and non-limiting description of embodiments, examples and elements of the present invention, with reference to the appended figures.

[0218] The figures are schematic, are not drawn to scale, and may be simplified for clarity. Throughout, the same reference numerals are used for identical or corresponding parts.

[0219] Figure 1a is a perspective illustration of a cone sleeve of an embodiment of the invention of treating an end section of a conductor.

[0220] Figure 1 b is a perspective illustration of a collet of an embodiment of the invention of treating an end section of a conductor. P85018PC01

[0221] 26

[0222] Figure 1 c is a perspective illustration of a conductor fitting of an embodiment of the invention of treating an end section of a conductor.

[0223] Figure 2 is a side view of a treated end section of a conductor according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0224] Figure 3 is a side view of another treated end section of a conductor according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0225] Figures 4a-c show a clamping tool suitable for pulling the cone sleeve partially or fully onto the collet. The clamping tool is shown in respectively a perspective view (figure 4a) a front view (4b) and a cross sectional side view in the cross-sectional cut B-B of figure 4b (figure 4c).

[0226] Figure 5 illustrates a cold spray device for treating the end-face of the conductor to a cold spray procedure comprising building a metallic coating onto the end-face of the conductor using a cold spray procedure.

[0227] Figure 6a a is a cross-sectional view of a cable joint between respective end sections of two cable end sections each cable end section comprises a conductor provided by an embodiment of the method of the invention.

[0228] Figure 7a shows a fastener set with a compression spring arrangement as described above suitable for use in the method of providing an embodiment of the cable joint of the invention.

[0229] Figure 7b shows a cross-sectional view of the fastener set 70 of figure 7a.

[0230] Figures 8a and 8b further illustrates the function of the fastener sets 70.

[0231] Figure 9 is a variation of the cross-sectional view of a cable joint between respective end sections of two cable end sections illustrated in figure 6a.

[0232] Figure 10 illustrate a step-by-step procedure of an embodiment of the invention comprising performing the method of treating an end section of a conductor according to an embodiment and the method of providing a cable joint according to an embodiment.

[0233] Figures 1 1 a-1 1d show examples of suitable support structures. P85018PC01

[0234] 27

[0235] Figures 12a-12c shows a part of a conductor end section during insertion of support structures.

[0236] Figures 12d-12e show the conductor end section of figures 12a-1 c wherein the collet has been applied to surround the conductor and where the cone sleeve has been at least partially pulled / pushed onto the collet to provide the radially directed compressive force onto the conductor.

[0237] The cone sleeve 1 shown in figure 1a is adapted to surround the conductor with the first cone sleeve end 2 located closer to the conductor end than the second cone sleeve end 3. The cone sleeve 1 comprises a recess 4, which may be applied for pulling the cone sleeve 1 onto a collet. The cone sleeve 1 has a conical frustum shaped inner surface and the cone sleeve 1 has a larger inner circumference at the first cone sleeve end 2 than the circumference of the second cone sleeve end 3.

[0238] The collet 11 shown in figure 1 b is adapted to be applied to surround the conductor between the cone sleeve 1 and the conductor end and with the first collet end 12 located closer to the end of the conductor than the second collet end 13. The collet 11 has a conical frustum shaped outer surface providing that the first collet end 12 has a larger outer circumference than the circumference of the second collet end 13. The collet comprises a plurality of slots 14a, 14 b cut into the collet. In the shown embodiment, the collet comprises an equal number of A types slots 14a and B type slot Mbs located alternating in the circumference of the collet 11.

[0239] The conductor fitting illustrated in figure 1 c is adapted for being inserted least partially in between the multiple elongate elements of the conductor as described above and comprises an apex and a head 22 for use in the insertion of the conductor fitting in between the multiple elongate elements of the conductor. The conductor fitting may be threaded as described above.

[0240] The treated end section of the conductor 10 shown in figure 2 comprises a cone sleeve 1 , a collet 11 and a conductor fitting 21. The end section of the conductor 10 has been treated by applying the cone sleeve 1 to surround the conductor 10 with the first cone sleeve end 2 located closer to the conductor end than the second cone sleeve end 3. The collet 11 has been applied to surround the conductor 10 between the cone sleeve 1 and the conductor end and with the first collet end 12 located closer to the end of the conductor than the second collet end 13; and an axially directed force has been applied to pull and / or push the cone sleeve 1 partially onto P85018PC01

[0241] 28 the collet to provide the radially directed compressive force onto the conductor 10. For further reinforcement a pre clamping component 5 has been added op surround the cone sleeve 1 at the first cone sleeve end 2. The conductor fitting 21 has been inserted between the multiple elongate elements of the conductor from a first endface of the conductor as described above.

[0242] The treated end section of the conductor 10 shown in figure 3 comprises a cone sleeve 1 , with a recess 4 and a collet 1 1 and a conductor fitting 21 illustrated inside the conductor between the multiple elongate elements.

[0243] Initially the insulation of the length section L3 of the end section of the cable has been cut free of the remaining insulation 20 releasing the end section of the conductor 10 from insulation. The conductor 10 has then been treated by applying the cone sleeve 1 to surround the conductor 10 with the first cone sleeve end 2 located closer to the conductor end than the second cone sleeve end 3. The collet 11 has been applied to surround the conductor 10 between the cone sleeve 1 and the conductor end and with the first collet end 12 located closer to the end of the conductor than the second collet end 13; and an axially directed force has been applied to pull and / or push the cone sleeve 1 partially or fully onto the collet 11 providing the second collet end 13 to be visible. A conductor fitting 21 has been inserted between the multiple elongate elements of the conductor. Finally, optional parts of the collet 11 , and the conductor fitting 21 extending beyond the first cone sleeve end 2 has been cut off to provide a substantially flat end face 30 of the treated conductor, e.g. ready for forming a joint and / or for being subjected to a cold spraying application prior to forming a joint. The diameters D1 and D3 of the cone sleeve may for example be measured e.g. for quality control to determine a relative cone sleeve expansion ratio and / or a relative conductor crimping ratio.

[0244] In an embodiment, the relative cone sleeve expansion ratio is from 1 to 100 %o, such as from 4 to 10 %o and the relative conductor crimping ratio is from 1 to 25 %, such as from 5 to 15 %.

[0245] Figures 4a-c show a clamping tool suitable for pulling the cone sleeve partially or fully onto the collet. The clamping tool is shown in respectively a perspective view (figure 4a) a front view (4b) and a cross sectional side view in the cross-sectional cut B-B of figure 4b (figure 4c). P85018PC01

[0246] 29

[0247] The application of the axially directed force to pull the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet may preferably be performed using a clamping tool e.g. as shown in figures 4a-c.

[0248] The clamping tool of figures 4a-c comprises a clamping jaw lower 41 a and a clamping jaw upper 41 b , each with a pressure flange 42 engaging with a recess 4 in the cone sleeve 1 . The clamping jaw lower 41 a and the clamping jaw upper 41 b are fixed to a hydraulic cylinder 43 via a clamping ring 44. The clamping tool comprises a not shown mechanical stop element arranged to hold the collet 11 in fixed position during the pulling of the cone sleeve 1 at least partially onto the collet 11 . The mechanical stop element may comprise a rigid element fixed to for example the hydraulic cylinder and comprising a holding flange adapted to engage with the first collet end to provide the mechanical stop.

[0249] In the shown embodiment a conductor fitting 21 , which is preferably threaded, has been inserted in between the multiple elongate elements of the conductor 10 via an end face 10a of the conductor 10. A pin arrangement 45 is applied to the conductor fitting 21 in position, which simultaneously provides that the end face 10a of the conductor 10 may be held in a controlled, such as a fixed position during the pulling of the cone sleeve 1 at least partially onto the collet 11 .

[0250] The clamping tool also comprises a pressure ring 47 forming an encasing muff adapted for providing a temporarily circumferential encasing of at least a length portion of the cone sleeve 1 during the pulling of the cone sleeve 1 at least partially onto the collet 11 . The pressure ring 47 forming the encasing muff advantageously has the function of ensuring that the force applied to move the cone sleeve 1 at least partially onto the collet 11 does not result in an undesired plastically deformation of the cone sleeve 1 .

[0251] The shown clamping tool comprises a handle 46 for manually operation of the clamping tool.

[0252] The cold spray device illustrated in figure 5 comprises a heating chamber 52 and an inlet 50 for suppling pressurized gas into the tube 51 and further into the heating chamber 52, where it may reach a pressure of up to 100 bar.

[0253] The cold spray device further comprises a particle chamber 53 comprising a feedstock of the particle to be cold sprayed. P85018PC01

[0254] 30

[0255] Pressurized gas is adapted to be fed into the particle chamber 53, in this embodiment also via the inlet 50. The pressurized gas in the particle chamber 53 is mixed with particles of the feedstock. The gas from the particle chamber 53 and the gas from the heating chamber 52 is then mixed in the tube 54 and a not shown nozzle is arranged to speed up the velocity of the mixed gas to form a cold spray stream 55 applied onto the end face 10a of the conductor 10.

[0256] The cold spraying device may be handled in hand held fashion and operated by one person, or be mounted on an automated device.

[0257] Figure 6a a is a cross-sectional view of a cable joint between respective end sections of two cable end sections each cable end section comprises a conductor provided by an embodiment of the method of the invention

[0258] The cable joint comprises a connector ferrule assembled from a set of shells, here in the form of two half shells 60. Each half shell 6 has two opposite ends, each having a compressing flange 61 extending radially inwards and defines oppositely located openings for the conductors 10 of the two cable ends. The compressing flange 61 comprises a plurality of through holes each comprising a though going fastener set 70. Each of the two cable end sections comprises a conductor 10 that is released from insulation at the end section of the cable. The released conductor comprises a cone sleeve 1 surrounding the conductor 10 and with a pressing surface facing towards the respective radially inwards extending compression flanges 61 of the half shells 60.

[0259] The end sections of the two cables are located within the connector ferrule via the defining oppositely located openings of the connector ferrule to form an electrical connection between the respective conductors of the two cables. A flex element as described above is located between the two conductors 10 to ensure a desired electrical connection.

[0260] Each fastener sets 70 comprises a compression spring arrangement as described above exerting and maintaining a pressure applied towards the respective pressing surfaces 7 of the respective cone sleeves 1 pressing the conductors towards each other to form the cable joint. In a variation thereof the fastener sets 70 of one of the end of the half shells is replaced by fasteners without a compression spring arrangement. Insulation gripping shields 62 is arranged to ensure a safe fixing of the insulation adjacent the connector ferrule. P85018PC01

[0261] 31

[0262] Figure 6b shows the connector ferrule of the assembled half shells 60, without the end sections of the two cables. The connector ferrule further comprises distance pieces 63, which may conveniently comprise a locking flange for the insulating gripping shields 62. The distance pieces 63 and the gripping shields 62 further has the function of ensuring a good mechanical protection of the joint conductors 10 inside the connector ferrule.

[0263] Figure 7a shows a fastener set 70 a compression spring arrangement as described above exerting and maintaining a pressure applied towards the respective pressing surfaces 7 of the respective cone sleeves 1 pressing the conductors towards each other to form the cable joint.

[0264] The fastener sets 70 of figures 7a and 7b comprises a nut 71 ; a pressure piston arrangement with a pressure surface 72a and a compression spring arrangement 73.

[0265] The nut comprises a nut shaft having a first nut end 71 a and a second nut end 71 b and an externally threaded nut shaft section 71 c in at least a length section of the nut located between the first nut end and the second nut end. The thread of the externally threaded nut shaft are adapted to engage with a threaded annular edge of the through hole of the set of shells it is adapted to be inserted through.

[0266] The pressure piston arrangement comprising a pressure piston 72 having the pressure surface 72a and comprising a pressure piston support structure 74a and wherein the nut comprises a nut support structure 74b at the second nut end, wherein the compression spring arrangement 73 is located between the nut support structure and the pressure piston support structure.

[0267] The pressure piston arrangement also comprises a locking screw 75 with an externally threaded screw shaft and wherein the nut 71 comprises an internally threaded nut shaft section 71 d engaging with the external thread of the locking screw 75. The internally threaded nut shaft section 71 d preferably is located adjacent to the first nut end 71 a and the locking screw 75 preferably is at least partially tightened into the internally threaded nut shaft section 71 d prior to tightening of the fastener set.

[0268] The locking screw 75 has a locking screw head 75a, which is visible externally to the connector ferrule and wherein the location of the locking screw head is adapted for indicating a tightening stage and / or a compression stage of the compression spring arrangement e.g. as described above. P85018PC01

[0269] 32

[0270] The compression spring arrangement comprises a stack disc springs 73a.

[0271] The operation of the fastener set 70 is as described above.

[0272] Figures 8a and 8b further illustrates the function of the fastener sets 70.

[0273] In figure 8a the fastener set 70 is illustrated in untightened condition and it can be seen that the pressure piston pressure surface 72a is not in contact with the cone sleeve pressing surface 7. Upon tightening of the nut into the threaded annular edge of the through hole in the flange 61 as indicated with the arrow in figure 8a, the nut 71 is pressed downwards, thereby moving the pressure piston arrangement including the pressure piston 72 downwards providing the pressure piston pressure surface 72a to come into contact with the cone sleeve pressing surface 7 and further providing the compression spring arrangement 73 to be compressed between the pressure piston support structure 74a the nut support structure 74b ring arrangement 73, whereby an axial clamping force is applied onto the cone sleeve pressing surface. As explained above, the spring arrangement 73 ensures to exert and maintain the pressure applied towards the pressing surfaces 7 cone sleeve 1 .

[0274] The cross-sectional view of a cable joint between respective end sections of two cable end sections shown in figure 9 is a variation of the cable joint illustrated in figure 6a, where the cone sleeve of one of the conductors 10 is pressed directly towards an inwardly directed surface 61 of one of the radially inwards extending compression flanges 61 , which may then be free of through going holes.

[0275] The step-by-step procedure illustrated in figure 10 comprises illustrative steps for treating an end section of a conductor and providing a cable joint of two treated conductor end section.

[0276] In step 1 , a length section of the insulation has been removed to release the end section of the conductor 10 from the insulation 80. Further a cone sleeve 1 , a collet 11 and a conductor fitting 21 has been provided.

[0277] In step 2, the cone sleeve 1 is applied to surround the conductor 10 with the first cone sleeve end 2 located closer to the conductor end 10b than the second cone sleeve end 3.

[0278] In step 3, the collet 11 is applied to surround the conductor 10 between the cone sleeve 1 and the conductor end 10b and with the first collet 12 end located closer to the end 10b of the conductor than the second collet end 13. P85018PC01

[0279] 33

[0280] In step 4, the conductor fitting 21 is inserted in between the multiple elongate elements if the conductor 10 e.g. as described above.

[0281] In step 5, an axially directed force is applied to pull and / or push the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet 11 to provide a radially directed compressive force onto the conductor 10.

[0282] In step 6, the portions of the collet 11 and the conductor fitting 21 extending beyond the first end 2 of the cone sleeve is cut off to provide a plane end face suitable for forming a cable joint.

[0283] In step 7, the plane end face provided in step 6 is to a cold spray procedure comprising building a metallic coating onto the end-face of the conductor using a cold spray procedure e.g. as described above.

[0284] In step 8, a flex element 90 is provided and mounted to the metallic coating provided in step 7.

[0285] In step 9, a second treated cable end section is provided and the conductor end face of the second cable end section is mounted to an opposite side of the flex element. The second treated cable end section is treated using the method described above.

[0286] The end sections of the two cables is applied into one of the shells of a set of shells providing that the end-faces of the respective conductors are facing towards each other and that the cone sleeve of the respective prepared end sections are located inside the shell and with respective cone sleeve pressing surfaces 7 facing towards the respective radially inwards extending compression flanges 61 .

[0287] In step 10, the set of shells to form the connector ferrule is assembled.

[0288] In step 11 , the fastener sets 70 are tightened to apply a pressure towards the respective pressing surfaces 7 of the respective cone sleeves 1 , by the respective fastener sets 70 applied through the through holes of the of the set of shells.

[0289] In step 12, a groove 81 is made in the insulations 80 of each of the end sections of the two cables. P85018PC01

[0290] 34

[0291] In step 13, distance pieces are applied between the respective shells of the set of shells. The distance pieces conveniently comprise a locking flange for mounting insulating gripping shields 62.

[0292] In step 14, the insulation gripping shields 62 is arranged to ensure a safe fixing of the insulation adjacent the connector ferrule.

[0293] In step 15, the step-by-step procedure has been completed and a very strong, highly reliable and long lasting cable joint has been provided.

[0294] The support structure shown in figures 11 a and 11 b comprises a mesh strip 100a, 100b, which has been formed to an annular shape. It can be seen that the edges are not overlapping. In a variation thereof the edges may be connected to form a full annular shape. In another variation the, support structure is shaped to have a tube shape.

[0295] The support strip shown in figure 11 c comprises a string or a wire 11 c, which is shaped as a helical coil.

[0296] The support strip shown in figure 11d comprises an unfolded support strip 100d, which e.g. may be inserted in unfolded or in folded condition to be located between conductor elements of the conductor at the end section of the conductor.

[0297] Figure 12a shows a part of a conductor end section, wherein the conductor comprises a core comprising the axis of the conductor and a plurality of layers of conductor elements 105 wound to surround the axis of the conductor. The outermost layer of conductor 105a has been slightly lifted for enabling a relatively easy insertion of a support structure between the outermost layer of conductor 105a and an underlying layer of conductors.

[0298] In figure 12b a support structure 100 corresponding to the support stricture 101 a shown in figure 11a is partially inserted between the outermost layer of conductor 105a and an underlying layer of conductors.

[0299] In figure 12c, the support structure 100 has been fully inserted between the outermost layer of conductors 105a and an underlying layer of conductors. In addition, 3 additional support structures have been fully inserted between layers of conductors lying below the outermost layer of conductors 105a and a further support structure 100 has been partially inserted between the core and an innermost layer of conductors. P85018PC01

[0300] 35

[0301] When the further support structure 100 has been partially inserted between the core and an innermost layer of conductors, the conductor comprises support structures inserted between each layer of conductor elements of the conductor.

[0302] It can be seen that a cone sleeve 102 having the first cone sleeve end 102 located closer to the conductor end than the second cone sleeve end has been applied to surround the conductor prior to the insertion of the support structures.

[0303] In figure 12d, all the support structures have been fully inserted, and the collet 111 has been applied to surround the conductor. It can be seen that the collet has a number of grooves 111 a coaxially surrounding the axis if the collar 111. These grooves ensured a strong grip to the outer surface of the outermost layer of conductors 105a.

[0304] In figure 12e, the force to pull and / or push the cone sleeve 101 at least partially onto the collet 111 has been performed and the cone sleeve 101 and the collet 111 are now asserting the radially directed compressive force onto the conductor.

[0305] Example

[0306] Four end section of a conductors were treated according to embodiments. The conductors comprised a core and 6 surrounding layers of keystone shaped conductor elements. The end sections of the cables comprising the conductors and the end sections of the conductors were treated as described above to be prepared for being joint, where two of the cables comprised conductors with inserted support structures as shown in figure 12b and the other two cables comprises conductors without inserted support structures.

[0307] A joint between the two cables comprising conductors with inserted support structures is performed as described and in the same way a joint between the two cables comprising conductors without inserted support structures is performed.

[0308] The two joints were subjected to a factory pull test, testing that the respective joints can withstand the axial loads that cables cable and assembled joint are expected to be exposed to during operation. The joint between the two cables comprising conductors with inserted support structures passes the test, whereas the joint between the two cables comprising conductors without inserted support structures did not pass the test due to slip between conductor elements at the joint.

Claims

P85018PC0136PATENT CLAIMS1 . A method for treating an end section of a conductor comprising a conductor end and a plurality of conductor elements, wherein the method comprises providing a radially directed compressive force onto the conductor, the method comprises• providing a cone sleeve having an outer surface, a conical frustum shaped inner surface and a first cone sleeve end and a second cone sleeve end, wherein the first cone sleeve end has a larger inner circumference than the circumference of the second cone sleeve end;• applying the cone sleeve to surround the conductor with the first cone sleeve end located closer to the conductor end than the second cone sleeve end• providing a collet having an inner surface, a conical frustum shaped outer surface and a first collet end and a second collet end, wherein the first collet end has a larger outer circumference than the circumference of the second collet end;• applying the collet to surround the conductor between the cone sleeve and the conductor end and with the first collet end located closer to the end of the conductor than the second collet end; and• applying an axially directed force to pull and / or push the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet to provide the radially directed compressive force onto the conductor.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the application of the axially directed force to pull and / or push the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet comprises applying the force until at least one of the conductor and the collet has been plastic deformed.

3. The method of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the application of the axially directed force to pull the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet comprises application of a selected force between the cone sleeve and the collet has been reached, wherein the selected force is a force that provides a deformation of the cone sleeve which deformation is at least 50 % elastic, such as at least 60 % elastic, such as at least 70 % elastic, such as at least 80 % elastic, such as at least 90 % elastic, such as at least 95 % elastic, such as at least 99 % elastic or even 100 % elastic.P85018PC01374. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cone sleeve comprises a cone metal having a yield strength, wherein the application of the axially directed force to pull and / or push the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet, produces a stress in the cone sleeve that is less than the yield strength of the cone material, preferably the cone material forms a load bearing portion of the cone sleeve.

5. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises applying the axially directed force without applying torque and / or twisting forces.

6. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises applying the axially directed force without applying one or more elements that contribute to increasing an external diameter of the treated end section beyond the outer diameter of the cone sleeve.

7. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the collet comprises a collet metal having a yield strength, wherein the application of the axially directed force to move the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet produces a stress in the collet that increases than the yield strength of the collet material, preferably the collet material forms a load bearing portion of the collet.

8. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the application of the axially directed force to pull the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet comprises application of the force until the pressure required indicates that the yield point of the material of the cone sleeve has been reached and / or until the required force per mm of pulling the cone sleeve onto the collet decreases.

9. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the application of the axially directed force comprises pulling the cone sleeve to fully cover the collet.

10. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the application of the axially directed force comprises pulling the cone sleeve to a preselected location relative to the collet, such as a preselected location where the second end of the cone sleeve is closer to the conductor end than the second end of the collet.11 . The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the application of the axially directed force to move the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet comprises applying at least a part of the force as a pushing force toward a second cone sleeve end edge and / or applying at least a part of the force as a pulling forceP85018PC0138 by pulling the cone sleeve e.g. via one or more recesses in the cone sleeve, while holding the collet in fixed position, optionally the holding the collet in fixed position is performed by providing a mechanical stop.

12. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises providing a temporarily circumferential encasing to surround at least a length portion of the cone sleeve during the application of the axially directed force, wherein the temporarily circumferential encasing restricts expansion of the cone sleeve beyond a preselected level, preferably the preselected level corresponds to an increase of an average outer diameter of the cone sleeve of up to 5 %, such as up to 2 %, such as up to 1 %, wherein the encasing preferably comprise an encasing muff.

13. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the application of the axially directed force to pull the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet is performed using a clamping tool, wherein the method comprising removing the tool when the axially directed force to pull and / or push the cone sleeve at least partially, such as fully or partially, onto the collet has been performed.

14. The method of claim 10, or 10.1 , wherein the temporarily circumferential encasing is removed when the axially directed force to pull and / or push the cone sleeve at least partially, such as fully or partially, onto the collet has been performed.

15. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the application of the axially directed force to pull the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet is performed using a clamping tool, adapted for providing a pulling force, the clamping tool preferably comprises• a holding flange adapted to engage with the collet at the first collet end to provide a mechanical stop;• a pressure flange adapted to engage with the cone sleeve for applying the pulling pressure; and• preferably an encasing muff adapted for providing a temporarily circumferential encasing of at least a length portion of the cone sleeve during the application of the axially directed force.P85018PC013916. The method of claim 15, wherein the clamping tool is a hydraulic operating tool adapted for applying a pulling force of at least about 10 kN, such as at least about 20 kN, such as at least about 30 kN.

17. The method of claim 15 or claim 16, wherein the outer surface of the cone sleeve forms at least one external recess and the clamping tool comprises a clamping jaw comprising at least one gripping protrusion adapted for engaging with the at least one external recess of the cone sleeve, preferably the external recess comprises an annular or semi-annular external recess and the least one gripping protrusion of the clamping jaw corresponds to the at least one external recess of the cone sleeve.

18. The method of any one of claims 15-17, wherein the clamping tool comprises a controller for controlling and / or adjusting the applied pulling force for generating the axially directed force to pull the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet, preferably the clamping tool is adapted for controlling and / or adjusting the applied pulling force to ensure that the cone sleeve is elastically deformed, such as elastically deformed to at least 10 % of its yield strength at 120 °C, such as to at least 50 %, such as to at least 75 % of its yield strength at 120 °C, such as from 10 % to 100 % of its yield strength at 120 °C, such as from 25 % to 99 % of its yield strength at 120 °C.

19. The method of any one of claims 15-18, wherein the clamping tool comprises the encasing muff adapted for providing a temporarily circumferential encasing of at least a length portion of the cone sleeve during the application of the axially directed force, wherein the encasing muff has an internal diameter corresponding to an external diameter of an encased portion of the cone sleeve in unloaded condition and wherein the clamping tool comprises a sensor adapted for sensing a radially outwards pressure applied onto the encasing muff during the application of the axially directed force to pull the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet.

20. The method of any one of claims 15-19, wherein the encasing muff is adapted for clamping the cone sleeve, when the cone sleeve has reached a preselected radial expansion, such as a radial expansion of 2% or less, such as a radial expansion of 1 % or less.

21. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pulling of the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet provides an at least partially plastic crimping ofP85018PC0140 a portion of the conductor encased by the collet and the cone sleeve, wherein a length section of the collet adapted to be covered by the cone sleeve, has an average outer diameter larger than the average inner diameter of the cone sleeve, thereby providing that the length section of the collet when covered by the cone sleeve is deformed and is crimping the encased portion of the conductor, preferably the method comprises pulling the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet to provide the radially directed compressive force to plastically deform the collet and preferably to plastically deform at least some of the conductor elements of the conductor.

22. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the conductor elements of the conductor comprises multiple elongate elements, such as wires and / or strands.

23. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the conductor is a stranded conductor and / or a Milliken conductor, preferably comprising at least 5 conductor elements, such as from 10 - 1000 conductor elements or more, such as from 19 to 100 conductor elements.

24. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the conductor is a Milliken type conductor comprising segments of conductor elements.

25. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the elements of the conductor comprises cross-sectional round stranded conductor elements, cross-sectional oval stranded conductor elements, cross-sectional compacted stranded conductor elements and / or cross-sectional profiled stranded conductor elements, such as keystone shaped conductor elements, optionally the cable is of the Milliken type comprising sections of stranded conductor elements.

26. The method of claim 18, wherein the pulling of the cone sleeve at least partially onto the collet comprises plastically deforming at least a number of the multiple elongate elements of the conductor, such as at least some of or all of circumferentially outermost multiple elongate elements in physical contact with the collet are plastically deformed.

27. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cone sleeve has a length along an axis of the cone sleeve extending between the first cone sleeve end and the second cone sleeve end, wherein the conical frustum shaped inner surface of the cone sleeve is gradually decreasing from the first cone sleeve end to theP85018PC0141 second cone sleeve end, such as gradually decreasing with an average angle to a center axis of the cone sleeve which is up to up to 30 degrees, such as up to 15 degrees, such as from 1 to 25 degrees, such as from 5 to 10 degrees, wherein the inner surface of the cone sleeve optionally comprises a rounded length section adjacent to the first cone sleeve end, where the gradually decreasing is less than further from the first cone sleeve end.

28. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the length of the cone sleeve in unloaded condition is from 2 -20 cm, such as from 3 to 10 cm, such as from 1 to 20 times, e.g. 2 to 10 times the conductor diameter in unloaded condition.

29. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the collet has a length along an axis of the collet extending between the first collet end and the second collet end, wherein the conical frustum shaped outer surface of the collet is gradually decreasing from the first collet end to the second collet end, such as gradually decreasing with an average angle to a center axis of the collet which is up to up to 30 degrees, such as up to 15 degrees, such as from 1 to 25 degrees, such as from 5 to 10 degrees, wherein the outer surface of the collet optionally comprises a rounded length section adjacent to the second collet end, where the gradually decreasing is less than further from the second collet end.

30. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the length of the collet in unloaded condition is from 2-30 cm, preferably the length of the collet is longer than the length of the cone sleeve, such as at least 10 % longer, such as at least 50 % longer than the cone sleeve.

31. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the collet comprises a plurality of slots, wherein each slot, individually of each other extends from one of the first collet end and the second collet end to a distance from the other one of the first collet end and the second collet end, preferably at least one of the plurality of slots is a type A slot extending from the first collet end and to a distance from the second collet end and / or at least one of the plurality of slots is a type B slot extending from the second collet end and to a distance from the first collet end.

32. The method of claim 31 , wherein the collet comprises an even number of slots, such as from 2 to 20 slots, such as 2, 4, 6, 8 or 10 slots, preferably the slots are located with a substantially equal average distance between adjacent slots of the plurality of slots.P85018PC014233. The method of claim 31 or claim 32, wherein each of the plurality of slots individually of each has a slot width, which may be equal or different along the length of the slot, wherein the slots preferably has a maximal width of up to a diameter of the multiple elongate elements of the conductor.

34. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises inserting at least one conductor fitting at least partially in between the multiple elongate elements of the conductor from a first end-face of the conductor comprising providing a portion of the conductor fitting to be located at a cross- sectional location of the conductor surrounded by or adapted to be surrounded by said collet.

35. The method of claim 34, wherein each of the at least one conductor fitting comprises an apex, wherein the inserting of the at least one conductor fitting comprises bringing the apex of the conductor fitting in contact with the end-face of the conductor and pressing the conductor fitting in between the multiple elongate elements of the conductor to plastically deform at least some of the multiple elongate elements of the conductor.

36. The method of claim 34 or claim 35, wherein the inserting of the at least one conductor fitting comprises inserting the conductor fitting between the multiple elongate elements at the center axis of the conductor.

37. The method of any one of claims 34-36, wherein the inserting of the at least one conductor fitting comprises inserting a plurality of conductor fittings, preferably the plurality of conductor fittings are inserted in a cross sectional symmetrical pattern.

38. The method of any one of claims 34-37, wherein the method comprises inserting at least an inserting length section of the at least one conductor fitting, wherein the inserting length section is at least one cm, such as at least 2 cm, such as preferably at least 50 % of the length of the collet, such as at least the length of the collet, such as longer than the length of the collet, such as up to 200 %, such as up to 150 % of the length of the collet.

39. The method of any one of claims 34-38, wherein the inner surface of the collet in unloaded condition has a circumference that is constant along the length of the collet or is gradually decreasing from the first collet end to the second with anP85018PC0143 average angle to a center axis of the cone fitting which is up to 10 degrees, such as from 0.1 degree to 5 degrees.

40. The method of any one of claims 27-32, wherein the inserting of the at least one conductor fitting is performed prior to, simultaneously with or after application of the pulling force, and / or prior to, simultaneously with or after one or more of the steps• providing the cone sleeve;• applying the cone sleeve to surround the released conductor;• providing the collet and / or• applying the collet.41 . The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises inserting at least one support structure to be located between conductor elements of the conductor at the end section of the conductor, wherein the support structure comprises a material having a Vickers hardness of at least 15 HV, such as at least 17 HV, such as at least 20 HV, such as at least 30 HV, such as at least 40 HV.

42. The method of claim 41 , wherein the support structure is of nonmagnetic material.

43. The method of claim 41 or claim 42, wherein the support structure comprises a material having a Vickers hardness which is at least as high as the Vickers hardness of at least one of the conductor elements, preferably the support structure comprises a material having a Vickers hardness, which is at least as high as, such as at least 2 HV, such as at least 5 HV, such as at least 10 HV higher than the Vickers hardness of at one of contacting conductor elements, which the support structure is or will be in contact with after the cone sleeve has been pulled and / or pushed at least partially onto the collet.

44. The method of claim any one of claims 41-43, wherein the support structure is entirely of a material having a hardness of at least 15 HV, preferably the support structure is entirely of a material having a Vickers hardness, which is at least as high as the Vickers hardness of at least one of the conductor elements, which the support structure is or will be in contact with after the cone sleeve has been pulled and / or pushed at least partially onto the collet.P85018PC014445. The method of claim any one of claims 41-44, wherein the support structure comprises at least one of an aromatic thermosetting polymer, such as polyimides (PI), polybenzimidazole (PBI) and / or bismaleimides (BMI); a crystalline fluoropolymer, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), ethylene chlorotrifluoroethylene (ECTFE) and / or polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), thermoplastics selected from polyether ether ketone (PEEK), Polyetherimide (PEI) and / or), Polyphenylene sulfide (PPS); and / or ultra-high Hardness Thermosets, such as epoxy resins, phenolics and / or melamine-formaldehyd.

46. The method of claim any one of claims 41-45, wherein the support structure comprises a polymer filled with at least one of glass fibers, carbon fibers, basalt fibers, ceramic particles and / or carbon nanotubes.

47. The method of claim any one of claims 41-46, wherein the support structure comprises a metal, such as aluminum, titanium and / or an alloy, such as stainless steel, preferably austenitic stainless steel.

48. The method of claim any one of claims 41-47, wherein the support structure comprises at least one string and / or a wire and / or a mesh of one or more string and / or wires.

49. The method of claim any one of claims 41-48, wherein the support structure comprises a mesh strip and or a mesh tube section.

50. The method of claim any one of claims 41-49, wherein the conductor comprises at least two layers of the conductor elements helically wound to surround an axis of the conductor and wherein the inserting at least one support structure to be located between conductor elements of the conductor at the end section of the conductor comprises inserting the at least one support structures between said at least two layers of the conductor elements, preferably comprising inserting a support structure between each layer of conductor elements of the at least two layers of the conductor elements.51 . The method of claim any one of claims 41-50, wherein the inserting of the at least one support structure to be located between conductor elements at the end section of the conductor comprises inserting the at least one support structure to provide that at least a portion of the at least one support structure is located at a cross-sectional location of the conductor surrounded by or adapted to be surrounded by said collet.P85018PC014552. The method of claim any one of claims 41-51 , wherein the method comprises inserting at least a support length section of the at least one conductor support structure, wherein the support length section is at least one cm, such as at least 2 cm, such as preferably at least 50 % of the length of the collet, such as at least the length of the collet, such as longer than the length of the collet, such as up to 200 %, such as up to 150 % of the length of the collet.

53. The method of claim any one of claims 41-52, wherein the inserting of the at least one support structure to be located between conductor elements of the conductor at the end section of the conductor is performed prior to or simultaneously with application of the pulling force, and / or prior to, simultaneously with or after one or more of the steps• providing the cone sleeve;• applying the cone sleeve to surround the released conductor;• providing the collet and / or• applying the collet.

54. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the conductor is selected from an aluminum conductor, a copper conductor a zinc conductor, a steel conductor or any combinations thereof.

55. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the collet, the cone sleeve and the at least one conductor fitting individually of each other comprises one or more metals optionally coated with a protection layer.

56. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein one or more of the collet and the cone sleeve is / are coated with lubrication such as grease, oil and / or a dry lubrication, such as PTFE or graphite, optionally the conductor fitting(s) is are coated with a lubrication.

57. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises cutting of optionally portions extending beyond the first end of the cone sleeve to provide a plane end face suitable for forming a cable joint.

58. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the conductor end form part of a cable end section and the method comprises stripping theP85018PC0146 conductor from insulation at the end section of the cable prior to application of the cone sleeve, preferably the cable is a HV cable.

59. The method of claim any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method for treating the end section of the conductor comprising preparing an endface of the conductor for being joined, comprising preparing the end face to be entirely plane, preferably to have a RA roughness of less than about 10 pm, such as of less than 5 pm, such as of 1 pm or less.

60. The method of claim any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method for treating the end section of the conductor comprising preparing an endface of the conductor for being joined, comprising providing the conductorto have a pretreated end-face, comprising subjecting the end-face of the conductorto a cold spray procedure comprising building a metallic coating onto the end-face of the conductor using a cold spray procedure.61 . A method of providing a cable joint between respective end sections of two cable end sections each cable end section comprises a conductor, the method comprises• preparing the end section of each of two cables comprising releasing the conductor from insulation at the end section of the cable and applying a cone sleeve to surround the released conductor at end section of the cable;• providing a set of shells for a connector ferrule, wherein each shell of the set of shells comprises a longitudinal curved segment of an annular wall forming the connector ferrule and having two opposite ends, each having a compressing flange extending radially inwards to provide oppositely located openings for the respective end sections of the cables, wherein at least one of the compressing flanges comprises at least one through hole.• providing a plurality of fastener sets, wherein each of the fastener sets is adapted to be applied through each of the through holes of the sets of shells;• applying the prepared end sections of the two cables into at least one of the shells to provide that the end-faces of the respective conductors are facing towards each other and that the cone sleeve of the respective prepared end sections are located inside the at least one shell and with respective cone sleeve pressing surfaces facing towards the respective radially inwards extending compression flanges; andP85018PC0147• assembling the set of shells to form the connector ferrule and applying a pressure towards the respective pressing surfaces of the respective cone sleeves, by the respective fastener sets applied through the through holes of the of the set of shells; wherein each fastener sets comprises a compression spring arrangement arranged to exert and maintain the pressure applied towards the respective pressing surfaces of the respective cone sleeves.

62. The method of claim 61 , wherein the applying of the pressure towards the respective pressing surfaces of the respective cone sleeves comprises, tightening each of the respective fastener sets, wherein each fastener set comprises a nut; a pressure piston arrangement with a pressure surface and the compression spring arrangement, wherein the tightening of each of the respective fastener sets comprises tightening the nut to press the pressure surface of the pressure piston arrangement towards the respective pressing surfaces of the respective cone sleeves, while simultaneously providing a compression of the compression spring arrangement.

63. The method of claim 61 or claim 62, wherein each of the through holes of the sets of shells comprises a threaded annular edge facing an axis of the through hole, and wherein the nut comprises a nut shaft having a first nut end and a second nut end and an externally threaded nut shaft section in at least a length section of the nut located between the first nut end and the second nut end, wherein the thread of the externally threaded nut shaft are adapted to engage with the threaded annular edge of at least one of the through holes.

64. The method of claim 63, wherein the method comprises applying each of the fastener sets through each of the respective through holes of the sets of shells by engaging the thread of the externally threaded nut shaft of the fastener set with the threaded annular edge of at least one of the through holes and at least partially threading the nut into the through hole.

65. The method of claim 63 or claim 64, wherein the pressure piston arrangement comprising a pressure piston having the pressure surface and comprising a pressure piston support structure and wherein the nut comprises a nut support structure at the second nut end, wherein the compression spring arrangement is located between the nut support structure and the pressure piston support structure.P85018PC014866. The method of any one of claims 63-65, wherein the pressure piston arrangement comprising a locking screw with an externally threaded screw shaft and wherein the nut comprises an internally threaded nut shaft section adapted to engage with the locking screw, wherein the internally threaded nut shaft section preferably is located adjacent to the first nut end and wherein the locking screw preferably is at least partially tightened into the internally threaded nut shaft section prior to tightening of the fastener set.

67. The method of any one of claims 63-66, wherein the tightening of each of the of the respective fastener sets comprises tightening the nut into the threaded through hole until the pressure surface of the pressure piston reaches the pressing surface of the cone sleeve and until the compression spring arrangement is at least partially compressed.

68. The method of claim 67, wherein the tightening of each of the of the respective fastener sets comprises untightening the nut at least partially from the externally threaded screw shaft of the locking screw.

69. The method of any one of claims 66-68, wherein the locking screw and the pressure piston of the pressure piston arrangement are mutually displaceable relative to a nut shaft axis, preferably the locking screw and the pressure piston are separate elements or the locking screw and the pressure piston are integrated with a flexible interconnection allowing the mutually displacement.

70. The method of any one of claims 66-69, wherein the locking screw has a locking screw head which is visible externally to the connector ferrule and wherein the location of the locking screw head is adapted for indicating a tightening stage and / or a compression stage of the compression spring arrangement.

71. The method of any one of claims 61-70, wherein the compression spring arrangement comprises a disc spring and / or a spring washer.

72. The method of any one of claims 61-71 , wherein the set of shells comprises two semi-annular shells.

73. The method of any one of claims 40-50, wherein the method comprises applying an electrically conductive element between the end-faces of the respective conductors prior to assembling the set of shells, preferably the electrically conductiveP85018PC0149 element is a flex element, wherein the flex element comprises an embossed metal plate, preferably consisting of silver and / or copper.

74. The method of any one of claims 61 -72, wherein the preparing of at least one of the end sections of the two cables is performed fully or partially according to any one of claims 1-60.

75. The method of any one of claims 61 -74, wherein the method comprises providing an insulation to surround the connector ferrule.

76. A conductor comprising an end section comprising a conductor end and a plurality of conductor elements, wherein end section of the conductor comprises a plastically deformed collet at least partially surrounded by an elastically deformed cone sleeve.

77. The conductor according to claim 76, wherein the conductor is obtained by and / or is obtainable by any one of the claims 1-60.

78. A cable joint between respective end sections of two cable end sections each cable end section comprises a conductor, wherein the cable joint comprises a connector ferrule assembled from a set of shells, and having two opposite ends, each having a compressing flange extending radially inwards, defining oppositely located openings and wherein the compressing flange comprises a plurality of through holes each comprising a though going fastener set, wherein each of two cables comprises a conductor that is released from insulation at the end section of the cable, wherein the released conductor comprises a cone sleeve to surrounding the conductor and with respective pressing surfaces facing towards the respective radially inwards extending compression flanges; and where the end sections of the two cables are located within the connector ferrule via the defining oppositely located openings of the connector ferrule to form an electrical connection between the respective conductors of the two cables, optionally via an electrically conducting element, such as a flex element, wherein each fastener sets comprises a compression spring arrangement exerting and maintaining a pressure applied towards the respective pressing surfaces of the respective cone sleeves pressing the conductors towards each other to form the cable joint.

79. The cable joint of claim 78, wherein the cable joint is obtained by and / or is obtainable by any one of the claims 61-75.

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