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 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 produce repeatable sealed packs.
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. The Length Seal Is Formed
The machine seals the film lengthways so that it surrounds the product in a tube.
4. End Sealing and Cutting
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.
Advantages of Flow Wrapping Machinery
Businesses often choose flow wrapping machines when they need faster production and repeatable packaging results.
Increased Production Rates
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 maintain a uniform brand appearance.
Reduced Labour Costs
Automation reduces the amount of manual handling needed during packaging. Staff can therefore be assigned to other duties.
Protection During Storage and Transport
A closed flow-wrapped pack provides protection from dust, damp conditions, contamination and physical contact during distribution and storage.
Adaptable Product Handling
Modern machines can package many product sizes and shapes using different flexible films.
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:
- Individual or grouped biscuits
- Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods
- Chocolate and confectionery
- Fruit and vegetables
- Frozen foods
- Medical devices
- Pharmaceutical products
- Personal care products
- Domestic and consumer products
- Small industrial and hardware parts
Its suitability for food and non-food applications makes flow wrapping a common packaging method in manufacturing.
What Films Can a Flow Wrapping Machine Use?
Different film materials can be used according to the packaging requirements.
Frequently used films include:
- BOPP film
- Polyolefin packaging film
- Polyethylene film read more
- Polyethylene terephthalate film
Film selection should take account of the item, shelf-life needs, pack appearance and operating conditions.
When Is It Time to Use Flow Wrapping Machinery?
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
- Labour costs are increasing
Automation may provide steadier production without reducing packaging consistency.
How Do You Choose a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Machine selection requires an assessment of pack format, output and future demand.
Important features include:
- Maximum production speed
- Product size capacity
- Fast and straightforward changeovers
- Photocell registration for printed films
- Integrated date or batch coding
- Compatibility with automatic feeding systems
- User-friendly controls
- Consistent and dependable seals
Machine suitability will be determined by the items being packed, required output and expected business growth.
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.
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 a Flow Wrapper Integrate with Existing Equipment?
In many cases, yes. Many flow wrapping machines are designed to connect with existing production equipment.
The machine can work alongside feeding units, conveyor systems and labelling equipment. 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.
Its range includes horizontal and vertical flow wrapping systems for food and non-food products.
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, they can. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, hardware, cosmetics and consumer goods.
How Fast Can Flow Wrapping Machines Operate?
Packaging speed is affected by the equipment model, pack format and item being handled. Many high-performance machines can produce several thousand sealed packs in an hour.