A flow wrapper is an automated packaging system that encloses products in flexible film. The machine forms a longitudinal seal and two end seals 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 production lines that require fast and consistent packaging.

 

 

How Do Flow Wrapping Machines Work?

 

 

Automatic flow wrapping equipment uses a continuous roll of flexible film to wrap products at a steady production rate.

 

 

1. Automatic Product Feeding

 

 

Products enter the wrapping section through an automatic conveyor or feeding arrangement.

 

 

2. Film Forming

 

 

The machine guides the film around each product during the packaging process.

 

 

3. Sealing Along the Pack

 

 

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

 

 

4. End Sealing and Cutting

 

 

The machine creates end seals and then separates each pack from the film web.

 

 

5. Pack Exit

 

 

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

 

 

Advantages of Flow Wrapping Machinery

 

 

Many manufacturers invest in flow wrapping machinery to increase production efficiency while maintaining packaging quality.

 

 

High Production Speeds

 

 

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

 

 

Repeatable Pack Presentation

 

 

Products pass through the same controlled sealing process. This can help keep retail packs neat and recognisable.

 

 

Less Manual Handling

 

 

An automated system reduces hands-on work throughout the wrapping process. 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

 

 

Current flow wrapping systems can handle a broad selection of product dimensions, shapes and film types.

 

 

Which Products Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package?

 

 

A flow wrapper is suitable for a wide selection of food and manufactured goods.

 

 

Typical applications include:

 

 

• Biscuits
• Bakery products
• Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery
• Fresh produce
• Selected frozen products
• Medical products and devices
• Pharmaceutical products
• Cosmetics and personal care items
• Household goods
• Small industrial and hardware parts

 

 

Its suitability for food and non-food applications makes flow wrapping a common packaging method in manufacturing.

 

 

Which Packaging Films Work with Flow Wrappers?

 

 

The correct flexible film will depend on the item being packed and the conditions it must withstand.

 

 

Common materials include:

 

 

• BOPP film
• Polyolefin film
• Polyethylene film
• 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.

 

 

A flow wrapping machine may be suitable if:

 

 

• Production volumes continue to increase
• Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck
• Packaging quality varies between operators
• You need more repeatable packaging results
• Labour costs are increasing

 

 

A suitable flow wrapper can raise output and produce more uniform packaging.

 

 

What Features Should You Look for in Flow Wrapping Machinery?

 

 

Several factors should be considered when selecting flow wrapping machinery.

 

 

Important features include:

 

 

• Packaging speed
• Supported product dimensions
• Fast and straightforward changeovers
• Photocell registration for printed films
• Integrated date or batch coding
• Automatic feeding integration
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• User-friendly controls
• Reliable sealing performance

 

 

Your product range, packaging volume and projected demand should guide the final machine specification.

 

 

Flow Wrapping Versus Shrink Wrapping

 

 

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

 

 

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.

 

 

Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Be Added to an Existing Production Line?

 

 

In many cases, yes. Current flow wrappers may be installed as part of an established production system.

 

 

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 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.

 

 

Available options include photocell registration, date or batch coding and machine configurations for specific production needs.

 

 

Kempner also provides installation, commissioning, servicing and ongoing technical support. These services can help businesses support dependable long-term production.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

What 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, they are. Flow wrapping is widely used for many bakery, confectionery, snack and fresh-food applications. It provides closed packaging that supports hygienic handling.

 

 

Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package Non-Food Products?

 

 

Yes, they can. 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 wrap several thousand products per hour.