Valve can extension

Abstract

Apparatus and methods are provided for the extension of access conduits to access underground valves and the like. A valve can extension comprising a tubular member having an extension riser portion at one end and an inwardly tapered portion at the other end. The extension riser portion has a substantially constant inner and outer diameter defining a substantially uniform wall thickness. The inwardly tapered portion is adapted to be inserted into and frictionally engage a valve can bell housing. The valve can extension and valve can bell housing assembly form a conduit from grade level to the bell portion having a substantially uniform inner and outer diameter. A simple friction fit joining method is provided to negate the need for complex mechanical coupling devices. The valve can extension further provides the ability to change the elevation of the valve can without the necessity of major excavation and back-filling to gain access to and rebury the coupling between the valve can extension and the bell housing.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.