A automatic flow wrapping system is an automated packaging system that wraps individual products in flexible packaging film. The machine forms a seal along the length of the pack and seals at both ends 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 Do Flow Wrapping Machines Work?
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
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. The Completed Pillow Pack
The sealed package exits the machine and can then be stored, distributed or displayed.
Advantages of Flow Wrapping Machinery
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
The machine applies consistent seals and pack formatting to every item. This can help keep retail packs neat and recognisable.
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 warehousing, handling and delivery.
Packaging for Different Products
The equipment can be configured for varied product formats and packaging materials.
Common Flow Wrapping Applications
The process can package products from several different sectors.
Typical applications include:
- Biscuits
- Bakery products
- Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery
- Fruit and vegetables
- Frozen foods
- Medical products and devices
- Pharmaceutical products
- 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
The correct flexible film will depend on the item being packed and the conditions it must withstand.
Frequently used films include:
- Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
- Polyolefin film
- Polyethylene (PE)
- PET 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?
An automatic flow wrapper may become suitable when manual processes start slowing the production line.
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.
What Features Should You Look for in Flow Wrapping Machinery?
Machine selection requires an assessment of pack format, output and future demand.
Useful machine features include:
- Maximum production speed
- Product size capacity read more
- Easy product changeovers
- Printed-film registration using photocells
- Date and batch-code printing
- Automatic feeding integration
- 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?
Although both methods use flexible film, the packaging processes are different.
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 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?
Yes. Many flow wrapping machines are designed to connect with existing production equipment.
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.
Support services include machine installation, commissioning, maintenance and technical assistance. These services can help businesses maintain reliable packaging performance.
Flow Wrapping Machine FAQs
What Is the Purpose of Flow Wrapping Machinery?
A flow wrapping machine wraps separate products in flexible packaging film and produces closed pillow-shaped packs. These packs can provide protection during handling, distribution and display.
Is Flow Wrapping Suitable for Food Products?
Yes. Flow wrapping is widely used for many bakery, confectionery, snack and fresh-food applications. It provides secure and hygienic packaging.
Can a Flow Wrapper Be Used for Manufactured Goods?
Yes. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for a range of healthcare, industrial and consumer 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.