A system includes a first platform movably mounted to a first rail assembly, a second rail assembly coupled to and supported by the first platform, and a second platform movably mounted to the second rail assembly. At least one articulating arm is coupled to the second platform, and a gripping and cutting apparatus is coupled to and supported by the at least one articulating arm. An apparatus includes first and second gripping mechanisms each configured for selective actuation between positions for gripping and releasing an object, and a cutting mechanism positioned generally between the first and second gripping mechanisms, and configured to cut the object when gripped on either side by the gripping mechanisms. The system and apparatus can be used to remove feeder pipes of a nuclear reactor power plant.