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.
Unlike manual packaging methods, flow wrapping machines are built for continuous production. This makes the equipment suitable for production lines that require fast and consistent packaging.
How Do Flow Wrapping Machines Work?
Automatic flow wrapping equipment uses a continuous roll of flexible film to produce repeatable sealed packs.
1. Product Feeding
A conveyor or connected feeding system automatically moves products into the machine.
2. Film Forming
The packaging film is shaped around each product as it moves through the machine.
3. Sealing Along the Pack
A longitudinal seal joins the film beneath or above the product, forming a continuous tube.
4. End Sealing and Cutting
The machine creates end seals and then separates each pack from the film web.
5. Finished Product
The completed pillow pack leaves the machine ready for storage, transport or retail display.
Advantages of Flow Wrapping Machinery
Businesses often choose flow wrapping machines when they need faster production and repeatable packaging results.
Increased Production Rates
Automatic systems can package thousands of products per hour, depending on the product and machine specification.
Uniform Seals and Appearance
The machine applies consistent seals and pack formatting to every item. This can help keep retail packs neat and recognisable.
Less Manual Handling
Automation reduces the amount of manual handling needed during packaging. Staff can therefore focus on other production tasks.
Protection During Storage and Transport
The sealed film can shield products against dirt, moisture, contamination and handling damage during storage and transport.
Packaging for Different Products
Modern machines can package many product sizes and shapes using different flexible films.
What Can Be Packaged Using a Flow Wrapper?
Flow wrapping machinery can be used for many food and non-food products.
Typical applications include:
- Individual or grouped biscuits
- Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods
- Chocolate and confectionery
- Fresh produce
- Frozen foods
- Medical devices
- Pharmaceutical goods
- Cosmetics and personal care items
- Domestic and consumer products
- Hardware components
Its suitability for food and non-food applications makes flow wrapping a common packaging method in manufacturing.
What Films Can a Flow Wrapping Machine Use?
Different film materials can be used according to the packaging requirements.
Common materials include:
- Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
- Polyolefin film
- Polyethylene (PE)
- PET film
Film selection should take account of the item, shelf-life needs, pack appearance and operating conditions.
When Is It Time to Use Flow Wrapping Machinery?
Companies often adopt flow wrapping machinery when hand packaging can no longer keep pace with demand.
A flow wrapping machine may be suitable if:
- Production volumes continue to increase
- Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck
- Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent
- Greater consistency is required
- Labour costs are increasing
Automatic packaging can improve productivity while maintaining consistent pack quality.
Key Flow Wrapper Features
The correct machine should be chosen according to the product and production requirements.
Useful machine features include:
- Maximum production speed
- Product size capacity click here
- Easy product changeovers
- Photocell registration for printed films
- Integrated date or batch coding
- Automatic feeding integration
- Clear operator controls
- Consistent and dependable seals
Machine suitability will be determined by the items being packed, required output and expected business growth.
How Do Flow Wrappers Differ from Shrink Wrap Machines?
Both systems package products in flexible material, although their operating methods differ.
A flow wrapping machine forms a sealed pillow pack from a continuous roll of 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. 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 raise production capacity without replacing every existing system.
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 maintain reliable packaging performance.
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 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.
Are Flow Wrappers Suitable for Non-Food Items?
Yes. 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 produce several thousand sealed packs in an hour.