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 completed package is often called a pillow pack because of its shape.
Unlike manual packaging methods, flow wrapping machines are built for continuous production. This makes the equipment suitable for businesses that need to package large quantities efficiently.
What Is the Flow Wrapping Process?
Flow wrapping machinery uses a continuous roll of flexible film to produce repeatable sealed packs.
1. Products Enter the Machine
Products are carried into the machine by a conveyor or integrated feeding system.
2. Packaging Film Positioning
As the item travels forward, the machine forms the flexible film around it.
3. Sealing Along the Pack
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. Pack Exit
The completed pillow pack leaves the machine ready for storage, transport or retail display.
Why Use a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Many manufacturers invest in flow wrapping machinery to increase production efficiency while maintaining packaging quality.
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.
Product Protection
The sealed film can shield products against dirt, moisture, contamination and handling damage during distribution and storage.
Adaptable Product Handling
Modern machines can package many product sizes and shapes using different flexible films.
Which Products Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package?
A flow wrapper is suitable for a wide selection of food and manufactured goods.
Common examples 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
- Household goods
- Small industrial and hardware parts
Its suitability for food and non-food applications makes flow wrapping a common packaging method in manufacturing.
Which Packaging Films Work with Flow Wrappers?
Different film materials can be used according to the packaging requirements.
Available film options include:
- Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
- Polyolefin film
- Polyethylene film
- Polyethylene terephthalate film
The most suitable film depends on the product, required shelf life, desired presentation and production environment.
Should Your Business Move to Automatic Flow Wrapping?
Many businesses move to automatic flow wrapping when manual packaging begins to restrict production.
Signs that an upgrade may be needed include:
- Production volumes continue to increase
- Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck
- Packaging quality varies between operators
- Greater consistency is required
- Manual packaging is becoming more expensive
Automatic packaging can improve productivity while maintaining consistent pack quality.
How Do You Choose a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Several factors should be considered when selecting flow wrapping machinery.
Specifications to review include:
- Maximum production speed check here
- Supported product dimensions
- Easy product changeovers
- Printed-film registration using photocells
- Date and batch-code printing
- Compatibility with automatic feeding systems
- Clear operator controls
- Consistent and dependable seals
Machine suitability will be determined by the items being packed, required output and expected business growth.
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.
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 Flow Wrapping Machinery Be Added to an Existing Production Line?
In many cases, yes. Current flow wrappers may be installed as part of an established production system.
Integration options commonly include automatic product feeders, conveyors and label applicators. This allows manufacturers to add automated packaging without making major changes to the full production line.
Flow Wrapping Machinery from Kempner
Kempner has more than 50 years of experience supplying packaging machinery and materials throughout the UK.
Its range includes horizontal and vertical flow wrapping systems for food and non-food products.
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 help shield items while they are stored, delivered or presented for sale.
Is Flow Wrapping Suitable for Food Products?
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, 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 produce several thousand sealed packs in an hour.