A flow wrapper is an automated packaging system that surrounds products with a continuous flexible film. The machine forms a longitudinal seal and two end seals to create a closed package.
The finished format is usually described as a pillow pack.
Rather than relying on repeated manual wrapping, flow wrapping machinery supports a continuous packaging process. This makes the equipment suitable for production lines that require fast and consistent packaging.
How Do Flow Wrapping Machines Work?
Flow wrapping machinery uses a continuous roll of flexible film to produce repeatable sealed packs.
1. Product Feeding
Products are carried into the machine by a conveyor or integrated feeding system.
2. Packaging Film Positioning
As the item travels forward, the machine forms the flexible film around it.
3. Sealing Along the Pack
A longitudinal seal joins the film beneath or above the product, forming a continuous tube.
4. The Pack Is Sealed and Separated
Cross seals are formed at each end before the package is cut from the continuous film.
5. The Completed Pillow Pack
The completed pillow pack leaves the machine ready for storage, transport or retail display.
Why Use a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Many manufacturers invest in flow wrapping machinery to increase production efficiency while maintaining packaging quality.
High Production Speeds
Depending on the machine model and product dimensions, a flow wrapper may package several thousand items each hour.
Uniform Seals and Appearance
Each product receives the same seal quality and presentation. This can help maintain a uniform brand appearance.
Reduced Labour Costs
Automation reduces the amount of manual handling needed during packaging. Staff can therefore focus on other production tasks.
Product Protection
The sealed film can shield products against dirt, moisture, contamination and handling damage during storage and transport.
Flexible Packaging Options
Modern machines can package many product sizes and shapes using different flexible films.
Which Products Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package?
The process can package products from several different sectors.
Products frequently packaged in this way include:
- Biscuits
- Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods
- Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery
- Fresh produce
- Selected frozen products
- Medical devices
- Pharmaceutical goods
- Personal care products
- Domestic and consumer products
- Hardware components
Because it can package both food and non-food goods, flow wrapping is widely used across manufacturing industries.
Flow Wrapping Film Options
The correct flexible film will depend on the item being packed and the conditions it must withstand.
Frequently used films include:
- Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
- Polyolefin film
- Polyethylene film
- Polyethylene terephthalate film
Film selection should take account of the item, shelf-life needs, pack appearance and operating conditions.
When Should You Invest in a Flow Wrapping Machine?
An automatic flow wrapper may become suitable when manual processes start slowing the production line.
You may benefit from upgrading when:
- Your required packaging output is rising
- Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck read more
- Packaging quality varies between operators
- Greater consistency is required
- Manual packaging is becoming more expensive
Automatic packaging can improve productivity while maintaining consistent pack quality.
How Do You Choose a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Machine selection requires an assessment of pack format, output and future demand.
Important features include:
- Packaging speed
- Product size capacity
- Easy product changeovers
- Photocell registration for printed films
- Integrated date or batch coding
- Compatibility with automatic feeding systems
- Clear operator controls
- Consistent and dependable seals
Your product range, packaging volume and projected demand should guide the final machine specification.
What Is the Difference Between Flow Wrapping and Shrink Wrapping?
Although both methods use flexible film, the packaging processes are different.
A flow wrapper creates a closed pillow-shaped pack using continuous film.
With shrink wrapping, the product is enclosed in film that shrinks when it passes through a heat tunnel.
Businesses should consider presentation, product characteristics and post-production handling when selecting a system.
Flow Wrapping Machine Integration
Yes. Flow wrapping machinery can often be integrated with equipment already in use.
The machine can work alongside feeding units, conveyor systems and labelling equipment. This allows manufacturers to increase packaging output without rebuilding the entire production process.
Why Choose Kempner for Flow Wrapping Machines?
Kempner UK has more than 50 years of experience supplying packaging machinery and materials throughout the UK.
Its range includes horizontal and vertical flow wrapping systems for food and non-food products.
Machines can be supplied with printed-film registration, optional coding systems and tailored configurations.
The company offers installation, start-up support, servicing and continued technical help. These services can help businesses keep equipment operating consistently.
Questions About Flow Wrapping Machinery
What Is a Flow Wrapping Machine Used For?
A flow wrapping machine creates sealed film packs around individual items. These packs can protect products during storage, transport and retail display.
Can Food Be Packaged with a Flow Wrapper?
Yes, they are. Flow wrapping is widely used for many bakery, confectionery, snack and fresh-food applications. It provides secure and hygienic packaging.
Can a Flow Wrapper Be Used for Manufactured Goods?
Yes, they can. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for a range of healthcare, industrial and consumer products.
What Is the Speed of a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Packaging speed is affected by the equipment model, pack format and item being handled. Many high-performance machines can produce several thousand sealed packs in an hour.