What Is a Flow Wrapping Machine?

A flow wrapper 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 completed package is often called a pillow pack because of its shape.

Unlike manual packaging methods, flow wrapping machines are built for continuous production. This makes the equipment suitable for businesses that need to package large quantities efficiently.

What Is the Flow Wrapping Process?

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

The machine seals the film lengthways so that it surrounds the product in a tube.

4. End 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.

What Are the Benefits of Flow Wrapping Machines?

Businesses often choose flow wrapping machines when they need faster production and repeatable packaging results.

Increased Production Rates

Depending on the machine model and product dimensions, a flow wrapper may package several thousand items each hour.

Repeatable Pack Presentation

The machine applies consistent seals and pack formatting to every item. This can help produce a consistent presentation across a production run.

Less Manual Handling

Flow wrapping machinery limits the need for employees to wrap every product by hand. Staff can therefore be assigned to other duties.

Protection During Storage and Transport

A closed flow-wrapped pack provides protection from dust, damp conditions, contamination and physical contact during warehousing, handling and delivery.

Packaging for Different Products

Current flow wrapping systems can handle a broad selection of product dimensions, shapes and film types.

Which Products Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package?

Flow wrapping machinery can be used for many food and non-food products.

Typical applications 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

Its suitability for food and non-food applications makes flow wrapping a common packaging method in manufacturing.

Flow Wrapping Film Options

The correct flexible film will depend on the item being packed and the conditions it must withstand.

Common materials include:

Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
Polyolefin packaging film
Polyethylene film
PET film

The most suitable film depends on the product, required shelf life, desired presentation and production environment.

Should Your Business Move to Automatic Flow Wrapping?

Companies often adopt flow wrapping machinery when hand packaging can no longer keep pace with demand.

A flow wrapping machine may be suitable if:

Your required packaging output is rising
Manual packaging slows the production line

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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.

What Features Should You Look for in Flow Wrapping Machinery?

The correct machine should be chosen according to the product and production requirements.

Useful machine features include:

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.

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.

Shrink wrapping places film around the item and then uses heat to contract it closely around the outside.

Businesses should consider presentation, product characteristics and post-production handling when selecting a system.

Can a Flow Wrapper Integrate with Existing Equipment?

Yes. Many flow wrapping machines are designed to connect with existing production equipment.

Compatible equipment may include automatic feeders, conveyors and labelling systems. This allows manufacturers to add automated packaging without making major changes to the full production line.

Flow Wrapping Machinery from Kempner

Kempner has supplied packaging machines and materials across the UK for over five decades.

Kempner supplies both horizontal and vertical machines that can be configured for different product types.

Systems may include printed-film controls, coding equipment and layouts adapted to individual applications.

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