Described is a lifting device for cylindrical templates in printing machines, with an inking tube extending through each cylindrical template, the lifting device travelling along a rail running parallel to the direction of the cylindrical template and along a rail travelling in a direction normal thereto and which can be releasably connected to the inking tube. The lifting device is constructed in the form of a hydraulically or pneumatically operated telescopic arm, always in the vertical position, which carries a tong-like gripper (2) for releasable connection with the inking tube (3).
