What Is a Flow Wrapping Machine?
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 completed package is often called a pillow pack because of its shape.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 produce repeatable sealed packs.1. Products Enter the MachineA conveyor or connected feeding system automatically moves products into the machine.2. Packaging Film PositioningAs the item travels forward, the machine forms the flexible film around it.3. Sealing Along the PackThe film is sealed along its length to create a continuous tube around the product.4. Cross Sealing and CuttingCross seals are formed at each end before the package is cut from the continuous film.5. Finished ProductOnce 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 RatesDepending on the machine model and product dimensions, a flow wrapper may package several thousand items each hour.Repeatable Pack PresentationProducts pass through the same controlled sealing process. This can help keep retail packs neat and recognisable.Lower Operator RequirementsAutomation reduces the amount of manual handling needed during packaging. Staff can therefore focus on other production tasks.Product ProtectionFlow wrapping helps protect products from dust, moisture, contamination and physical damage during storage and transport.Flexible Packaging OptionsCurrent flow wrapping systems can handle a broad selection of product dimensions, shapes and film types.What Can Be Packaged Using a Flow Wrapper?A flow wrapper is suitable for a wide selection of food and manufactured goods.Products frequently packaged in this way include: Biscuits Bakery products Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery Fresh produce Selected frozen products Medical devices Pharmaceutical products Cosmetics and personal care items Household goods Small industrial and hardware parts 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.Common materials include: Biaxially oriented polypropylene film Polyolefin packaging film Polyethylene (PE) here PET film The most suitable film depends on the product, required shelf life, desired presentation and production environment.Should Your Business Move to Automatic Flow Wrapping?Many businesses move to automatic flow wrapping when manual packaging begins to restrict production.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 A suitable flow wrapper can raise output and produce more uniform packaging.Key Flow Wrapper FeaturesMachine selection requires an assessment of pack format, output and future demand.Important features include: Maximum production speed Product size capacity Fast and straightforward changeovers Photocell registration for printed films Date and batch-code printing Automatic feeding integration User-friendly 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?Although both methods use flexible film, the packaging processes are different.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 IntegrationIn 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 raise production capacity without replacing every existing system.Why Choose Kempner for Flow Wrapping Machines?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.Available options include photocell registration, date or batch coding and machine configurations for specific production needs.Support services include machine installation, commissioning, maintenance and technical assistance. These services can help businesses maintain reliable packaging performance.Questions About Flow Wrapping MachineryWhat 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 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 a range of healthcare, industrial and consumer products.How Fast Can Flow Wrapping Machines Operate?The production rate varies according to product dimensions and machine specification. Many high-performance machines can produce several thousand sealed packs in an hour.