A flow wrapping machine 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.
Because of its shape, the finished package is commonly known 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 manufacturers processing high volumes of products.
How Does Flow Wrapping Machinery Work?
Automatic flow wrapping equipment 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. The Film Is Formed Around the Product
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.
Increased Production Rates
Automatic systems can package thousands of products per hour, depending on the product and machine specification.
Repeatable Pack Presentation
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?
The process can package products from several different sectors.
Products frequently packaged in this way include:
- Biscuits
- Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods
- 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
The correct flexible film will depend on the item being packed and the conditions it must withstand.
Common materials include:
- Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
- Polyolefin packaging film
- Polyethylene film
- Polyethylene terephthalate film
Film selection should take account of the item, shelf-life needs, pack appearance and operating conditions.
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:
- Production volumes continue to increase
- Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck
- Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent
- Greater consistency is required
- 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.
Specifications to review include:
- Packaging speed
- Product size capacity
- Easy product changeovers
- Printed-film registration using photocells click here
- 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.
Flow Wrapping Versus Shrink Wrapping
Both systems package products in flexible material, although their operating methods differ.
Flow wrapping machinery forms film around the product before applying length and end seals.
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 raise production capacity without replacing every existing system.
Why Choose Kempner for Flow Wrapping Machines?
Kempner has more than 50 years of experience supplying packaging machinery and materials throughout the UK.
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.
Support services include machine installation, commissioning, maintenance and technical assistance. These services can help businesses support dependable long-term production.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Purpose of Flow Wrapping Machinery?
A flow wrapping machine packages individual products in flexible film to form sealed pillow packs. These packs can provide protection during handling, distribution and display.
Are Flow Wrappers Used for Food Packaging?
Yes. Flow wrapping is widely used for biscuits, cakes, sweets, snack products and produce. It provides closed packaging that supports hygienic handling.
Are Flow Wrappers Suitable for Non-Food Items?
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?
Packaging speed is affected by the equipment model, pack format and item being handled. Many high-performance machines can wrap several thousand products per hour.