A flow wrapping machine is an automated packaging system that surrounds products with a continuous flexible 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.

 

 

What Is the Flow Wrapping Process?

 

 

A flow wrapping machine 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. Packaging Film Positioning

 

 

As the item travels forward, the machine forms the flexible film around it.

 

 

3. Sealing Along the Pack

 

 

The film is sealed along its length to create a continuous tube around the product.

 

 

4. Cross 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 completed pillow pack leaves the machine ready for storage, transport or retail display.

 

 

Why Use a Flow Wrapping Machine?

 

 

Businesses often choose flow wrapping machines when they need faster production and repeatable packaging results.

 

 

Increased Production Rates

 

 

Depending on the machine model and product dimensions, a flow wrapper may package several thousand items each hour.

 

 

Repeatable Pack Presentation

 

 

The machine applies consistent seals and pack formatting to every item. This can help keep retail packs neat and recognisable.

 

 

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 storage and transport.

 

 

Flexible Packaging Options

 

 

Modern machines can package many product sizes and shapes using different flexible films.

 

 

Common Flow Wrapping Applications

 

 

The process can package products from several different sectors.

 

 

Products frequently packaged in this way include:

 

 

• Biscuits
• Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods
• Chocolate 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?

 

 

A flow wrapping machine can use several flexible packaging films depending on the product and application.

 

 

Frequently used films include:

 

 

• Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
• Polyolefin film
• Polyethylene (PE)
• Polyethylene terephthalate 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:

 

 

• Production volumes continue to increase
• 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:

 

 

• Packaging speed
• Product size capacity
• Easy product changeovers
• Printed-film registration using photocells
• Date and batch-code printing
• Automatic feeding integration
• website
• 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?

 

 

Both systems package products in flexible material, although their operating methods differ.

 

 

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 right method depends on the required appearance, product type and handling conditions after packaging.

 

 

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 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.

 

 

Machines can be supplied with printed-film registration, optional coding systems and tailored configurations.

 

 

Kempner also provides installation, commissioning, servicing and ongoing technical support. These services can help businesses keep equipment operating consistently.

 

 

Questions About Flow Wrapping Machinery

 

 

What Does a Flow Wrapper Package?

 

 

A flow wrapping machine creates sealed film packs around individual items. 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 many bakery, confectionery, snack and fresh-food applications. It provides secure and hygienic packaging.

 

 

Can a Flow Wrapper Be Used for Manufactured Goods?

 

 

Yes. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for a range of healthcare, industrial and consumer products.

 

 

How Many Products Can a Flow Wrapper Package?

 

 

Operating speed depends on the machine and the product being packaged. Many high-performance machines can package thousands of individual items each hour.