A flow wrapping machine is an automated packaging system that wraps individual products in flexible packaging film. The machine forms long seals and cross 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 Does Flow Wrapping Machinery Work?
Automatic flow wrapping equipment uses a continuous roll of flexible film to wrap products at a steady production rate.
1. Automatic Product Feeding
A conveyor or connected feeding system automatically moves products into the machine.
2. Packaging Film Positioning
As the item travels forward, the machine forms the flexible film around it.
3. Sealing Along the Pack
The film is sealed along its length to create a continuous tube around the product.
4. Cross Sealing and Cutting
Cross seals are formed at each end before the package is cut from the continuous film.
5. Finished Product
Once sealed and cut, the finished pack moves out of the machine ready for handling, delivery or sale.
Advantages of Flow Wrapping Machinery
Flow wrapping equipment can help manufacturers improve output and produce consistent packs.
Fast Packaging Output
Automatic systems can package thousands of products per hour, depending on the product and machine specification.
Consistent Packaging Quality
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.
A Protective Film Barrier
Flow wrapping helps protect products from dust, moisture, contamination and physical damage during distribution and storage.
Packaging for Different Products
The equipment can be configured for varied product formats and packaging materials.
What Can Be Packaged Using a Flow Wrapper?
Flow wrapping machinery can be used for many food and non-food products.
Common examples include:
- Individual or grouped biscuits
- Bakery products
- Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery
- Fresh produce
- Selected frozen products
- Medical devices
- Pharmaceutical goods
- Personal care products
- Domestic and consumer products
- Hardware components
Flow wrapping is used throughout many industries because it can handle both edible products and manufactured items.
Which Packaging Films Work with Flow Wrappers?
A flow wrapping machine can use several flexible packaging films depending on the product and application.
Available film options include:
- BOPP film
- Polyolefin film
- Polyethylene (PE)
- Polyethylene terephthalate film
The correct material will be determined by the product type, storage period, presentation requirements and production setting.
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:
- Production volumes continue to increase
- Manual packaging slows the production line
- Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent
- You need more repeatable packaging results
- 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.
Useful machine features include:
- check here
- Maximum production speed
- Supported product dimensions
- Fast and straightforward 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.
Flow Wrapping Versus Shrink Wrapping
Although both methods use flexible film, the packaging processes are different.
A flow wrapping machine forms a sealed pillow pack from a continuous roll of film.
A shrink wrap machine surrounds the product with shrink film before applying heat to tighten the material.
The right method depends on the required appearance, product type and handling conditions after packaging.
Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Be Added to an Existing Production Line?
In many cases, 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.
Kempner Flow Wrapping Systems
Kempner has more than 50 years of experience supplying packaging machinery and materials throughout the UK.
Kempner supplies both horizontal and vertical machines that can be configured for different product types.
Available options include photocell registration, date or batch coding and machine configurations for specific production needs.
Kempner also provides installation, commissioning, servicing and ongoing technical support. These services can help businesses support dependable long-term production.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does a Flow Wrapper Package?
A flow wrapping machine packages individual products in flexible film to form sealed pillow packs. These packs can help shield items while they are stored, delivered or presented for sale.
Are Flow Wrappers Used for Food Packaging?
Yes, they are. Flow wrapping is widely used for bakery goods, confectionery, snacks and fresh produce. It provides a hygienic sealed pack.
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.
How Fast Can Flow Wrapping Machines Operate?
The production rate varies according to product dimensions and machine specification. Many high-performance machines can package thousands of individual items each hour.