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 Do Flow Wrapping Machines Work?
Flow wrapping machinery 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 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. Cross Sealing and Cutting
End-sealing jaws close the package before cutting it into an individual pack.
5. Finished Product
The completed pillow pack leaves the machine ready for storage, transport or retail display.
Advantages of Flow Wrapping Machinery
Businesses often choose flow wrapping machines when they need faster production and repeatable packaging results.
Fast Packaging Output
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 keep retail packs neat and recognisable.
Lower Operator Requirements
Automation reduces the amount of manual handling needed during packaging. Staff can therefore be assigned to other duties.
Protection During Storage and Transport
A closed flow-wrapped pack provides protection from dust, damp conditions, contamination and physical contact during warehousing, handling and delivery.
Packaging for Different Products
The equipment can be configured for varied product formats and packaging materials.
What Can Be Packaged Using a Flow Wrapper?
A flow wrapper is suitable for a wide selection of food and manufactured goods.
Typical applications include:
- Individual or grouped biscuits
- Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods
- Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery
- Fresh produce
- Frozen foods
- Medical products and devices
- Pharmaceutical products
- Personal care products
- Domestic and consumer products
- Small industrial and hardware parts
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:
- 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.
Should Your Business Move to Automatic Flow Wrapping?
An automatic flow wrapper may become suitable when manual processes start slowing the production line.
Signs that an upgrade may be needed include:
- Your required packaging output is rising
- Manual packaging slows the production line
- Packaging quality varies between operators
- You need more repeatable packaging results
- Labour costs are increasing
Automation may provide steadier production without reducing packaging consistency.
How Do You Choose a Flow Wrapping Machine?
The correct machine should be chosen according to the product and production requirements.
Useful machine features include:
- Maximum production speed
- Supported product dimensions
- Easy product changeovers
- Printed-film registration using photocells here
- Date and batch-code printing
- Compatibility with automatic feeding systems
- Clear operator controls
- Reliable sealing performance
The correct choice depends on your products, current production volume and future growth plans.
Flow Wrapping Versus Shrink Wrapping
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
Yes. Flow wrapping machinery can often be integrated with equipment already in use.
Integration options commonly include automatic product feeders, conveyors and label applicators. This allows manufacturers to add automated packaging without making major changes to the full production line.
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.
Machines can be supplied with printed-film registration, optional coding systems and tailored configurations.
Support services include machine installation, commissioning, maintenance and technical assistance. These services can help businesses support dependable long-term production.
Flow Wrapping Machine FAQs
What Is a Flow Wrapping Machine Used For?
A flow wrapping machine creates sealed film packs around individual items. These packs can help shield items while they are stored, delivered or presented for sale.
Is Flow Wrapping Suitable for Food Products?
Yes. Flow wrapping is widely used for many bakery, confectionery, snack and fresh-food applications. It provides a hygienic sealed pack.
Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package Non-Food Products?
Yes. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for a range of healthcare, industrial and consumer products.
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.