A flow wrapping machine is an automated packaging system that surrounds products with a continuous flexible film. The machine forms a longitudinal seal and two end seals to create a closed package.
Because of its shape, the finished package is commonly known 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 Does Flow Wrapping Machinery Work?
A flow wrapping machine uses a continuous roll of flexible film to package products quickly and consistently.
1. Automatic Product Feeding
Products enter the wrapping section through an automatic conveyor or feeding arrangement.
2. Film Forming
The packaging film is shaped around each product as it moves through the machine.
3. The Length Seal Is Formed
The film is sealed along its length to create a continuous tube around the product.
4. The Pack Is Sealed and Separated
End-sealing jaws close the package before cutting it into an individual pack.
5. Pack Exit
The sealed package exits the machine and can then be stored, distributed or displayed.
What Are the Benefits of Flow Wrapping Machines?
Many manufacturers invest in flow wrapping machinery to increase production efficiency while maintaining packaging quality.
Fast Packaging Output
Depending on the machine model and product dimensions, a flow wrapper may package several thousand items each hour.
Uniform Seals and Appearance
Each product receives the same seal quality and presentation. This can help produce a consistent presentation across a production run.
Lower Operator Requirements
Flow wrapping machinery limits the need for employees to wrap every product by hand. Staff can therefore be assigned to other duties.
Product Protection
A closed flow-wrapped pack provides protection from dust, damp conditions, contamination and physical contact during distribution and storage.
Adaptable Product Handling
Current flow wrapping systems can handle a broad selection of product dimensions, shapes and film types.
Common Flow Wrapping Applications
A flow wrapper is suitable for a wide selection of food and manufactured goods.
Common examples include:
- Individual or grouped biscuits
- Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods
- Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery
- Fresh produce
- Frozen foods
- Medical devices
- Pharmaceutical goods
- Personal care products
- Domestic and consumer products
- Hardware components
Flow wrapping is used throughout many industries because it can handle both edible products and manufactured items.
Which Packaging Films Work with Flow Wrappers?
Different film materials can be used according to the packaging requirements.
Common materials include:
- Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
- Polyolefin film
- Polyethylene film
- PET film
The most suitable film depends on the product, required shelf life, desired presentation and production environment.
When Should You Invest in a Flow Wrapping Machine?
An automatic flow wrapper may become suitable when manual processes start slowing the production line.
Signs that an upgrade may be needed include:
- Your required packaging output is rising
- Manual packaging slows the production line
- Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent
- Greater consistency is required
- Labour costs are increasing
Automatic packaging can improve productivity while maintaining consistent pack quality.
Key Flow Wrapper Features
The correct machine should be chosen according to the product and production requirements.
Useful machine features include:
- Maximum production speed
- Supported product dimensions
- Fast and straightforward changeovers
- Printed-film registration using photocells click here
- Date and batch-code printing
- Compatibility with automatic feeding systems
- User-friendly 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.
With shrink wrapping, the product is enclosed in film that shrinks when it passes through a heat tunnel.
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?
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 raise production capacity without replacing every existing system.
Why Choose Kempner for Flow Wrapping Machines?
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 keep equipment operating consistently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does a Flow Wrapper Package?
A flow wrapping machine packages individual products in flexible film to form sealed pillow packs. These packs can help shield items while they are stored, delivered or presented for sale.
Are Flow Wrappers Used for Food Packaging?
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, they can. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for a range of healthcare, industrial and consumer products.
What Is the Speed of a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Operating speed depends on the machine and the product being packaged. Many high-performance machines can produce several thousand sealed packs in an hour.