A flow wrapping machine is an automated packaging system that wraps individual products in flexible packaging film. The machine forms a seal along the length of the pack and seals at both ends to create a closed package.
Because of its shape, the finished package is commonly known 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 manufacturers processing high volumes of products.
How Does Flow Wrapping Machinery Work?
A flow wrapping machine uses a continuous roll of flexible film to package products quickly and consistently.
1. Automatic Product Feeding
A conveyor or connected feeding system automatically moves products into the machine.
2. Packaging Film Positioning
The machine guides the film around each product during the packaging process.
3. Longitudinal Sealing
The machine seals the film lengthways so that it surrounds the product in a tube.
4. The Pack Is Sealed and Separated
The machine creates end seals and then separates each pack from the film web.
5. The Completed Pillow Pack
The completed pillow pack leaves the machine ready for storage, transport or retail display.
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
Automatic systems can package thousands of products per hour, depending on the product and machine specification.
Consistent Packaging Quality
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
The sealed film can shield products against dirt, moisture, contamination and handling damage during warehousing, handling and delivery.
Flexible Packaging Options
Modern machines can package many product sizes and shapes using different flexible films.
Common Flow Wrapping Applications
The process can package products from several different sectors.
Products frequently packaged in this way include:
- Biscuits
- Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods
- Chocolate and confectionery
- Fruit and vegetables
- Frozen foods
- Medical products and devices
- Pharmaceutical products
- Cosmetics and personal care items
- Household goods
- Small industrial and hardware parts
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.
Frequently used films include:
- Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
- Polyolefin film
- Polyethylene (PE)
- PET 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:
- Your required packaging output is rising
- Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck
- Packaging quality varies between operators
- Greater consistency is required
- Labour costs are increasing
Automation may provide steadier production without reducing packaging consistency.
What Features Should You Look for in Flow Wrapping Machinery?
Machine selection requires an assessment of pack format, output and future demand.
Useful machine features include:
- Maximum production speed
- Supported product dimensions
- Fast and straightforward changeovers click here
- Printed-film registration using photocells
- Date and batch-code printing
- Compatibility with automatic feeding systems
- Clear operator controls
- Consistent and dependable seals
The correct choice depends on your products, current production volume and future growth plans.
What Is the Difference Between Flow Wrapping and Shrink Wrapping?
Flow wrapping and shrink wrapping both involve film, but they form packs in different ways.
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.
The available machinery includes horizontal and vertical flow wrappers for food and non-food applications.
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 biscuits, cakes, sweets, snack products and produce. It provides a hygienic sealed pack.
Are Flow Wrappers Suitable for Non-Food Items?
Yes, they can. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, hardware, cosmetics and consumer goods.
What Is the Speed of a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Operating speed depends on the machine and the product being packaged. Many high-performance machines can wrap several thousand products per hour.