Flow Wrapping Machines Explained
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?
Flow wrapping machinery uses a continuous roll of flexible film to wrap products at a steady production rate.
1. Automatic Product Feeding
Products enter the wrapping section through an automatic conveyor or feeding arrangement.
2. Film Forming
The machine guides the film around each product during the packaging process.
3. Longitudinal Sealing
A longitudinal seal joins the film beneath or above the product, forming a continuous 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.
Product Protection
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.
Which Products Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package?
The process can package products from several different sectors.
Typical applications include:
- Biscuits
- Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods
- Chocolate and confectionery
- Fruit and vegetables
- Selected frozen products
- Medical devices
- Pharmaceutical goods
- Cosmetics and personal care items
- 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
A flow wrapping machine can use several flexible packaging films depending on the product and application.
Common materials include:
- Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
- Polyolefin film
- Polyethylene (PE) click here
- Polyethylene terephthalate film
Film selection should take account of the item, shelf-life needs, pack appearance and operating conditions.
Should Your Business Move to Automatic Flow Wrapping?
An automatic flow wrapper may become suitable when manual processes start slowing the production line.
Signs that an upgrade may be needed include:
- Production volumes continue to increase
- Manual packaging slows the production line
- Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent
- 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?
Several factors should be considered when selecting flow wrapping machinery.
Useful machine features include:
- Maximum production speed
- Product size capacity
- Fast and straightforward changeovers
- Printed-film registration using photocells
- Integrated date or batch coding
- Automatic feeding integration
- Clear operator controls
- Consistent and dependable seals
Your product range, packaging volume and projected demand should guide the final machine specification.
Flow Wrapping Versus Shrink Wrapping
Flow wrapping and shrink wrapping both involve film, but they form packs in different ways.
A flow wrapping machine forms a sealed pillow pack from a continuous roll of film.
With shrink wrapping, the product is enclosed in film that shrinks when it passes through a heat tunnel.
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. Many flow wrapping machines are designed to connect with existing production equipment.
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.
Kempner also provides installation, commissioning, servicing and ongoing technical support. These services can help businesses maintain reliable packaging performance.
Flow Wrapping Machine FAQs
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 biscuits, cakes, sweets, snack products and produce. It provides closed packaging that supports hygienic handling.
Can a Flow Wrapper Be Used for Manufactured Goods?
Yes, they can. 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?
The production rate varies according to product dimensions and machine specification. Many high-performance machines can package thousands of individual items each hour.