A flow wrapper is an automated packaging system that surrounds products with a continuous flexible 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 production lines that require fast and consistent packaging.

 

 

How Do Flow Wrapping Machines Work?

 

 

Automatic flow wrapping equipment uses a continuous roll of flexible film to wrap products at a steady production rate.

 

 

1. Automatic Product Feeding

 

 

A conveyor or connected feeding system automatically moves products into the machine.

 

 

2. Film Forming

 

 

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

 

 

Cross seals are formed at each end before the package is cut from the continuous film.

 

 

5. The Completed Pillow Pack

 

 

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

 

 

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?

 

 

An automatic flow wrapper may become suitable when manual processes start slowing the production line.

 

 

You may benefit from upgrading when:

 

 

• Production volumes continue to increase
• Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck
• Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent
• You need more repeatable packaging results
• 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
• Integrated date or batch coding
• flow wrapping machines
• Compatibility with automatic feeding systems
• 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

 

 

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.

 

 

A shrink wrap machine surrounds the product with shrink film before applying heat to tighten the material.

 

 

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. 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 Does a Flow Wrapper Package?

 

 

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, they are. Flow wrapping is widely used for many bakery, confectionery, snack and fresh-food applications. It provides secure and hygienic packaging.

 

 

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.