A flow wrapper 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.
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.
What Is the Flow Wrapping Process?
Automatic flow wrapping equipment 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. The Film Is Formed Around the Product
As the item travels forward, the machine forms the flexible film around it.
3. Longitudinal Sealing
The film is sealed along its length to create a continuous tube around the product.
4. End Sealing and Cutting
Cross seals are formed at each end before the package is cut from the continuous film.
5. The Completed Pillow Pack
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.
High Production Speeds
Automatic systems can package thousands of products per hour, depending on the product and machine specification.
Uniform Seals and Appearance
The machine applies consistent seals and pack formatting to every item. 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 spend less time on repetitive packaging work.
A Protective Film Barrier
The sealed film can shield products against dirt, moisture, contamination and handling damage during distribution and storage.
Packaging for Different Products
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
- Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods
- Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery
- Fresh produce
- Frozen foods
- Medical devices
- Pharmaceutical goods
- Cosmetics and personal care items
- 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
A flow wrapping machine can use several flexible packaging films depending on the product and application.
Available film options include:
- BOPP film
- Polyolefin packaging film
- Polyethylene film
- Polyethylene terephthalate film
The correct material will be determined by the product type, storage period, presentation requirements and production setting.
When Is It Time to Use Flow Wrapping Machinery?
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
- 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.
What Features Should You Look for in Flow Wrapping Machinery?
The correct machine should be chosen according to the product and production requirements.
Specifications to review include:
- Packaging speed
- Supported product dimensions
- Fast and straightforward changeovers
- Printed-film registration using photocells
- Date and batch-code printing
- Compatibility with automatic feeding systems click here
- Clear operator controls
- Consistent and dependable seals
Machine suitability will be determined by the items being packed, required output and expected business growth.
How Do Flow Wrappers Differ from Shrink Wrap Machines?
Although both methods use flexible film, the packaging processes are different.
Flow wrapping machinery forms film around the product before applying length and end seals.
With shrink wrapping, the product is enclosed in film that shrinks when it passes through a heat tunnel.
The choice will depend on the desired pack format, the product and how it will be stored or transported.
Flow Wrapping Machine Integration
In many cases, 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 add automated packaging without making major changes to the full production line.
Kempner Flow Wrapping Systems
Kempner UK has supplied packaging machines and materials across the UK for over five decades.
The available machinery includes horizontal and vertical flow wrappers for food and non-food applications.
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 support dependable long-term production.
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 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.
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.