Abstract: A lifting apparatus and system for lifting cylindrical rolls such as paper rolls is includes a horizontal beam with a gripping component at one end. A pivoting component is pivotally attached to the beam at another point. An engaging component is attached to the beam between the gripping component and the pivoting component and is located proximate the pivoting component. The pivoting component also includes an extension arm for connecting to a lifting mechanism such as a pulley or crane. The lifting apparatus is positioned over a horizontal roll so that the gripping component engages the roll in the center hole or hub. The engaging component grips the edge of the roll, and is securely held in place by the force of the pivoting component when lifting force is applied to the extension arm of the pivoting component. The lifting apparatus also allows easy maneuvering of a roll including mounting the roll in a horizontal or vertical position once the roll has been transported to the proper position.

Abstract: A tube positioning apparatus has at least one mandrel for positioning tubes for processing. A variable tube positioning stroke length is facilitated for optimizing stroke length and for optimizing the time required to position and process tube, such as by cutting. The tube positioning apparatus comprises a slide block having a mandrel attached thereto. The slide block is actuated on a plurality of slide rails from a first position to a second position. In the first position, the mandrel is retracted and in a second position the mandrel is extended for access by processing tools, such as circular knives for cutting the tube into desired lengths. A programmable sequence timer is provided for establishing desired time intervals during which the slide block and attached mandrel are in the retracted position or the extended position.