Separation tool and method for nozzle segments of gas turbines

A nozzle segment separation tool for use with a pair of airfoils of adjacent nozzle segments in a turbine, comprising:

• a pair of separation brackets;
• wherein the pair of separation brackets comprises a movable separation bracket and a stationary separation bracket;
• and,
• a hydraulic cylinder positioned between the pair of separation brackets;
• wherein the stationary separation bracket is attached to the hydraulic cylinder and comprises a curved contoured shape;
• wherein the movable separation bracket is positioned about a first airfoil of the pair of airfoils and the stationary separation bracket is positioned about a second airfoil of the pair of airfoils;
• and,
• wherein the hydraulic cylinder pushes the movable separation bracket against the first airfoil until the stationary separation bracket pushes the second airfoil to separate from the first airfoil.