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.
The finished format is usually described 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 production lines that require fast and consistent packaging.
How Do Flow Wrapping Machines Work?
Flow wrapping machinery uses a continuous roll of flexible film to produce repeatable sealed packs.
1. Products Enter the Machine
A conveyor or connected feeding system automatically moves products into the machine.
2. Film Forming
The machine guides the film around each product during the packaging process.
3. Longitudinal Sealing
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
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 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
Current flow wrapping systems can handle a broad selection of product dimensions, shapes and film types.
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
- Fruit and vegetables
- Frozen foods
- Medical products and devices
- Pharmaceutical products
- Cosmetics and personal care items
- Household goods
- Small industrial and hardware parts
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 (PE)
- PET film
Film selection should take account of the item, shelf-life needs, pack appearance and operating conditions.
When Should You Invest in a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Companies often adopt flow wrapping machinery when hand packaging can no longer keep pace with demand.
You may benefit from upgrading when:
- Your required packaging output is rising
- Manual packaging slows the production line
- Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent
- Greater consistency is required
- Manual packaging is becoming more expensive
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:
- Packaging speed
- Product size capacity read more
- Easy product changeovers
- Printed-film registration using photocells
- Integrated date or batch coding
- Compatibility with automatic feeding systems
- Clear operator controls
- Consistent and dependable seals
The correct choice depends on your products, current production volume and future growth plans.
How Do Flow Wrappers Differ from Shrink Wrap Machines?
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.
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.
Can a Flow Wrapper Integrate with Existing Equipment?
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.
Why Choose Kempner for Flow Wrapping Machines?
Kempner UK has more than 50 years of experience supplying packaging machinery and materials throughout the UK.
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 support dependable long-term production.
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 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 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.