Abstract: A method of removing an elongate first object from a second object is described. Typically, the first elongate object being removed comprises a free end portion and an embedded end portion which is embedded in the second object. In one embodiment, the method comprises (a) surrounding at least a portion of the elongate object with a rigid material to which one or more pneumatic jacks are attached; (b) placing at least a portion of the pneumatic jack(s) in contact with the second object; (c) placing one or more clamping surfaces in contact with the elongate first object; (d) actuating the jack(s) to introduce a separating force between the elongate first object and the second object while concurrently introducing a clamping force to the first elongate object through the clamping surface, the clamping force being proportionate to the separating force.

Abstract: A device which comprises (a) at least one receiving means for receiving a free end portion of an elongate first object, the elongate first object being comprised of (i) the free end portion and (ii) an embedded end portion which is embedded in a second object, (b) at least one clamping means connected to or integral with the receiving means for applying at least one clamping force to the free end portion of the elongate first object, and (c) at least one jack which comprises a cylinder, a piston, a piston rod, and a base, the jack being connected to the receiving means so that when (i) the elongate first object is received by the receiving means, (ii) the base is in contact with the second object and (iii) a pressurized fluid is introduced into the jack to provide a separating force, the receiving means may be urged away from the second object while the clamping means applies the clamping force to the elongate first object, the amount of clamping force applied by the clamping means being proportional to the m