A separation apparatus can include at least one endless cable. The cable can be wrapped around at least two revolvable cylindrical members a plurality of times. The wraps can form gaps between adjacent windings, which, along with the endless cable, can be used to facilitate separations processing. Additionally, the separation apparatus can optionally include a repositioning guide for each multiple wrap endless cable that can guide the endless cable in an endless route and prevent the cable from rolling off or falling off of the cylindrical members. Separation can be accomplished by oleophilic adherence to the cable, electrostatic adherence to the cable, and/or physical retention on the cable. This endless cable system can be particularly useful for separation of oil sand slurries, mass transfer operations, and physical separations.