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 businesses that need to package large quantities efficiently.
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. Product Feeding
Products enter the wrapping section through an automatic conveyor or feeding arrangement.
2. The Film Is Formed Around the Product
The packaging film is shaped around each product as it moves through the machine.
3. Longitudinal Sealing
The machine seals the film lengthways so that it surrounds the product in a tube.
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
Automatic systems can package thousands of products per hour, depending on the product and machine specification.
Consistent Packaging Quality
Products pass through the same controlled sealing process. This can help maintain a uniform brand appearance.
Lower Operator Requirements
Automation reduces the amount of manual handling needed during packaging. Staff can therefore focus on other production tasks.
Protection During Storage and Transport
A closed flow-wrapped pack provides protection from dust, damp conditions, contamination and physical contact during storage and transport.
Flexible Packaging Options
Current flow wrapping systems can handle a broad selection of product dimensions, shapes and film types.
What Can Be Packaged Using a Flow Wrapper?
A flow wrapper is suitable for a wide selection of food and manufactured goods.
Products frequently packaged in this way include:
- Biscuits
- Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods
- Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery
- Fresh produce
- Frozen foods
- Medical products and devices
- Pharmaceutical goods
- Cosmetics and personal care items
- Household goods
- Hardware components
Flow wrapping is used throughout many industries because it can handle both edible products and manufactured items.
What Films Can a Flow Wrapping Machine Use?
The correct flexible film will depend on the item being packed and the conditions it must withstand.
Available film options include:
- Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
- Polyolefin film
- Polyethylene film more info
- PET film
Film selection should take account of the item, shelf-life needs, pack appearance and operating conditions.
When Should You Invest in a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Companies often adopt flow wrapping machinery when hand packaging can no longer keep pace with demand.
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.
How Do You Choose a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Several factors should be considered when selecting flow wrapping machinery.
Important features include:
- Packaging speed
- Supported product dimensions
- Fast and straightforward changeovers
- Printed-film registration using photocells
- Date and batch-code printing
- Compatibility with automatic feeding systems
- Clear operator controls
- Reliable sealing performance
Your product range, packaging volume and projected demand should guide the final machine specification.
What Is the Difference Between Flow Wrapping and Shrink Wrapping?
Both systems package products in flexible material, although their operating methods differ.
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.
The right method depends on the required appearance, product type and handling conditions after packaging.
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.
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 UK 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.
The company offers installation, start-up support, servicing and continued technical help. These services can help businesses support dependable long-term production.
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. Flow wrapping is widely used for biscuits, cakes, sweets, snack products and produce. It provides closed packaging that supports hygienic handling.
Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package Non-Food Products?
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.