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 Does Flow Wrapping Machinery Work?
Automatic flow wrapping equipment 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 machine guides the film around each product during the packaging process.
3. The Length Seal Is Formed
The film is sealed along its length to create a continuous tube around the product.
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?
Businesses often choose flow wrapping machines when they need faster production and repeatable packaging results.
Increased Production Rates
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 produce a consistent presentation across a production run.
Less Manual Handling
Flow wrapping machinery limits the need for employees to wrap every product by hand. Staff can therefore be assigned to other duties.
Protection During Storage and Transport
The sealed film can shield products against dirt, moisture, contamination and handling damage during warehousing, handling and delivery.
Flexible Packaging Options
Modern machines can package many product sizes and shapes using different flexible films.
Which Products Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package?
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 products and devices
- Pharmaceutical products
- Cosmetics and personal care items
- Household goods
- 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?
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)
- Polyethylene terephthalate 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:
- Your required packaging output is rising
- Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck
- Packaging quality varies between operators
- Greater consistency is required
- Manual packaging is becoming more expensive
Automatic packaging can improve productivity while maintaining consistent pack quality.
How Do You Choose a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Machine selection requires an assessment of pack format, output and future demand.
Important features include:
- Packaging speed
- Product size capacity
- Easy product changeovers
- Printed-film registration using photocells
- Date and batch-code printing
- Automatic feeding integration
- User-friendly controls website
- Reliable sealing performance
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.
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.
Flow Wrapping Machine Integration
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 more than 50 years of experience supplying packaging machinery and materials throughout the UK.
Its range includes horizontal and vertical flow wrapping systems for food and non-food products.
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 maintain reliable packaging performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 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 bakery goods, confectionery, snacks and fresh produce. It provides a hygienic sealed pack.
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.
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 wrap several thousand products per hour.