The present invention relates to a separating device (1, 100) that includes a wedge (30, 130) that extends between first and second plates (10, 110, 20, 120). At least one of the plates (10, 110, 20, 120) is supported by a support device (e.g. a bar 31). The support device supports the or each plate (10, 110, 20, 120) whilst the device (10, 110, 20, 120) is in use so that the plate(s) (10, 110, 20, 120) are substantially prevented from bending or twisting due to the forces applied to the plate(s) (10, 110, 20, 120).