A flow wrapper is an automated packaging system that encloses products in flexible 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?
Automatic flow wrapping equipment uses a continuous roll of flexible film to wrap products at a steady production rate.
1. Automatic Product Feeding
Products are carried into the machine by a conveyor or integrated feeding system.
2. Film Forming
The packaging film is shaped around each product as it moves through the machine.
3. The Length Seal Is Formed
A longitudinal seal joins the film beneath or above the product, forming a continuous tube.
4. Cross Sealing and Cutting
Cross seals are formed at each end before the package is cut from the continuous film.
5. Finished Product
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.
Fast Packaging Output
Depending on the machine model and product dimensions, a flow wrapper may package several thousand items each hour.
Uniform Seals and Appearance
Each product receives the same seal quality and presentation. This can help produce a consistent presentation across a production run.
Less Manual Handling
An automated system reduces hands-on work throughout the wrapping process. Staff can therefore spend less time on repetitive packaging work.
Protection During Storage and Transport
A closed flow-wrapped pack provides protection from dust, damp conditions, contamination and physical contact during distribution and storage.
Adaptable Product Handling
Modern machines can package many product sizes and shapes using different flexible films.
Which Products Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package?
Flow wrapping machinery can be used for many food and non-food products.
Typical applications include:
- Individual or grouped biscuits
- Bakery products
- Chocolate and confectionery
- Fruit and vegetables
- Frozen foods
- Medical devices
- Pharmaceutical goods
- 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.
Flow Wrapping Film Options
A flow wrapping machine can use several flexible packaging films depending on the product and application.
Available film options include:
- BOPP film
- Polyolefin packaging film
- Polyethylene film
- Polyethylene terephthalate film
The correct material will be determined by the product type, storage period, presentation requirements and production setting.
When Is It Time to Use Flow Wrapping Machinery?
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
- Packaging quality varies between operators
- You need more repeatable packaging results
- Manual packaging is becoming more expensive
A suitable flow wrapper can raise output and produce more uniform packaging.
What Features Should You Look for in Flow Wrapping Machinery?
Machine selection requires an assessment of pack format, output and future demand.
Specifications to review include:
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- Maximum production speed
- Product size capacity
- Fast and straightforward changeovers
- Printed-film registration using photocells
- Integrated date or batch coding
- Compatibility with automatic feeding systems
- User-friendly controls
- Reliable sealing performance
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.
The right method depends on the required appearance, product type and handling conditions after packaging.
Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Be Added to an Existing Production Line?
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 increase packaging output without rebuilding the entire production process.
Flow Wrapping Machinery from Kempner
Kempner has more than 50 years of experience supplying packaging machinery and materials throughout the UK.
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.
Support services include machine installation, commissioning, maintenance and technical assistance. These services can help businesses keep equipment operating consistently.
Flow Wrapping Machine FAQs
What Is the Purpose of Flow Wrapping Machinery?
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 a Flow Wrapper Be Used for Manufactured Goods?
Yes. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, hardware, cosmetics and consumer goods.
How Many Products Can a Flow Wrapper Package?
The production rate varies according to product dimensions and machine specification. Many high-performance machines can package thousands of individual items each hour.