What Does a Flow Wrapping Machine Do?
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 manufacturers processing high volumes of products.
How Does Flow Wrapping Machinery Work?
A flow wrapping machine uses a continuous roll of flexible film to package products quickly and consistently.
1. Products Enter the Machine
Products are carried into the machine by a conveyor or integrated feeding system.
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 film is sealed along its length to create a continuous tube around the product.
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.
Why Use a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Many manufacturers invest in flow wrapping machinery to increase production efficiency while maintaining packaging quality.
High Production Speeds
Flow wrapping machinery can process thousands of products every hour when the equipment and application allow.
Uniform Seals and Appearance
Products pass through the same controlled sealing process. This can help keep retail packs neat and recognisable.
Lower Operator Requirements
An automated system reduces hands-on work throughout the wrapping process. Staff can therefore spend less time on repetitive packaging work.
A Protective Film Barrier
A closed flow-wrapped pack provides protection from dust, damp conditions, contamination and physical contact during warehousing, handling and delivery.
Packaging for Different Products
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:
- Biscuits
- Bakery products
- 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.
Which Packaging Films Work with Flow Wrappers?
Different film materials can be used according to the packaging requirements.
Available film options include:
- BOPP film
- Polyolefin film
- Polyethylene (PE)
- PET 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
- 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.
Important features include:
- flow wrapping machinery
- Packaging speed
- Product size capacity
- Easy product changeovers
- Printed-film registration using photocells
- 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.
How Do Flow Wrappers Differ from Shrink Wrap Machines?
Flow wrapping and shrink wrapping both involve film, but they form packs in different ways.
A flow wrapper creates a closed pillow-shaped pack using continuous film.
With shrink wrapping, the product is enclosed in film that shrinks when it passes through a heat tunnel.
Businesses should consider presentation, product characteristics and post-production handling when selecting a system.
Flow Wrapping Machine Integration
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.
Flow Wrapping Machinery from Kempner
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.
Machines can be supplied with printed-film registration, optional coding systems and tailored configurations.
The company offers installation, start-up support, servicing and continued technical help. 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 biscuits, cakes, sweets, snack products and produce. It provides closed packaging that supports hygienic handling.
Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package Non-Food Products?
Yes. 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.