Embodiments of the invention relate to a vane assembly formed by a forward
airfoil segment and an aft airfoil segment. The aft segment is made of
metal and can define the trailing edge of the vane assembly. The forward
segment can be made of ceramic, CMC or metal. The forward and aft
segments cannot be directly joined to each other because of differences
in their rates of thermal expansion and contraction. The forward and aft
segments can be positioned substantially proximate to each other so as to
form a gap therebetween. In one embodiment, the gap can be substantially
sealed by providing a coupling insert or leaf springs in the gap. A
separate metal aft segment can take advantage of the beneficial thermal
properties of the metal to improve cooling efficiency at the trailing
edge without limiting the rest of the vane to being made out of metal.