Abstract: Apparatus for the compressive handling of a strip of material, especially for handling paper strip in a paper machine, includes a plurality of cooperating horizontal and vertical roller pairs arranged in ascending and/or descending step-like succession and forming compressive zones through which the strip of material passes. Certain rollers are movably mounted so that they may be pivoted away from the compressive zone for replacement during operation of the paper machine. Cable guides are provided for leading the strip through the compressive zones and, owing to the movable mounting arrangement of the rollers, the course of the cable guides through the compressive zones need not be altered when a roller is exchanged.