What Is a Flow Wrapping Machine?

A automatic flow wrapping system is an automated packaging system that encloses products in flexible 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.

Flow wrappers differ from manual packaging systems because they can operate continuously. This makes the equipment suitable for manufacturers processing high volumes of products.

What Is the Flow Wrapping Process?

A flow wrapping machine uses a continuous roll of flexible film to package products quickly and consistently.

1. Products Enter the Machine

Products are carried into the machine by a conveyor or integrated feeding system.

2. The Film Is Formed Around the Product

The packaging film is shaped around each product as it moves through the machine.

3. The Length Seal Is Formed

The film is sealed along its length to create a continuous tube around the product.

4. End Sealing and Cutting

End-sealing jaws close the package before cutting it into an individual pack.

5. Pack Exit

The sealed package exits the machine and can then be stored, distributed or displayed.

Advantages of Flow Wrapping Machinery

Many manufacturers invest in flow wrapping machinery to increase production efficiency while maintaining packaging quality.

High Production Speeds

Flow wrapping machinery can process thousands of products every hour when the equipment and application allow.

Uniform Seals and Appearance

Products pass through the same controlled sealing process. This can help keep retail packs neat and recognisable.

Lower Operator Requirements

An automated system reduces hands-on work throughout the wrapping process. Staff can therefore spend less time on repetitive packaging work.

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:

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

Different film materials can be used according to the packaging requirements.

Available film options include:

BOPP film
Polyolefin packaging film
Polyethylene (PE)
PET film

The correct material will be determined by the product type, storage period, presentation requirements and production setting.

When Is It Time to Use Flow Wrapping Machinery?

Many businesses move to automatic flow wrapping when manual packaging begins to restrict production.

Signs that an upgrade may be needed include:

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?

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

Specifications to review include:

Packaging speed
Product size capacity
Easy product changeovers
Printed-film registration using photocells
Date and batch-code printing
Automatic feeding integration

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User-friendly controls
Reliable sealing performance

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?

Flow wrapping and shrink wrapping both involve film, but they form packs in different ways.

Flow wrapping machinery forms film around the product before applying length and end seals.

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.

Compatible equipment may include automatic feeders, conveyors and labelling systems. This allows manufacturers to increase packaging output without rebuilding the entire production process.

Kempner Flow Wrapping Systems

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 keep equipment operating consistently.

Questions About Flow Wrapping Machinery