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 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
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.
What Are the Benefits of Flow Wrapping Machines?
Flow wrapping equipment can help manufacturers improve output and produce consistent packs.
Fast Packaging Output
Flow wrapping machinery can process thousands of products every hour when the equipment and application allow.
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
A closed flow-wrapped pack provides protection from dust, damp conditions, contamination and physical contact during distribution and storage.
Packaging for Different Products
Current flow wrapping systems can handle a broad selection of product dimensions, shapes and film types.
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
- 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
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 Should You Invest in a Flow Wrapping Machine?
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
- Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent
- Greater consistency is required
- Labour costs are increasing
A suitable flow wrapper can raise output and produce more uniform packaging.
Key Flow Wrapper Features
Several factors should be considered when selecting flow wrapping machinery.
Important features include:
- Packaging speed
- Product size capacity
- Easy product changeovers
- Printed-film registration using photocells
- Date and batch-code printing
- Automatic feeding integration check here
- 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?
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.
The choice will depend on the desired pack format, the product and how it will be stored or transported.
Can a Flow Wrapper Integrate with Existing Equipment?
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 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
What Is a Flow Wrapping Machine Used For?
A flow wrapping machine creates sealed film packs around individual items. These packs can protect products during storage, transport and retail display.
Can Food Be Packaged with a Flow Wrapper?
Yes. Flow wrapping is widely used for many bakery, confectionery, snack and fresh-food applications. It provides closed packaging that supports hygienic handling.
Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package Non-Food Products?
Yes. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for medical items, pharmaceuticals, small components, personal care goods and household products.
How Many Products Can a Flow Wrapper Package?
Operating speed depends on the machine and the product being packaged. Many high-performance machines can wrap several thousand products per hour.