Abstract: Radial compression of a cylindrical body made of compressible material, is achieved by axially leading the body through a rotationally symmetrical space, which tapers in the transport direction and whose smallest diameter is smaller than that of the body to be compressed, the envelope of the rotationally symmetrical body being generated by roller shaped bodies which rotate in the same direction and cross the axis of rotation of the space at an angle of between 5.degree. and 45.degree. but do not intersect it. During such passage, the body performs a helical movement relative to the envelope of the rotationally symmetrical space and is compressed, the compression being made permanent by wrapping at the narrowest point of the space.