What Is a Flow Wrapping Machine?

A automatic flow wrapping system 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 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 wrap products at a steady production rate.

1. 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

A longitudinal seal joins the film beneath or above the product, forming a continuous tube.

4. The Pack Is Sealed and Separated

Cross seals are formed at each end before the package is cut from the continuous film.

5. The Completed Pillow Pack

Once 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.

Fast Packaging Output

Automatic systems can package thousands of products per hour, depending on the product and machine specification.

Consistent Packaging Quality

Each product receives the same seal quality and presentation. This can help maintain a uniform brand appearance.

Reduced Labour Costs

Automation reduces the amount of manual handling needed during packaging. Staff can therefore focus on other production tasks.

A Protective Film Barrier

Flow wrapping helps protect products from dust, moisture, contamination and physical damage during distribution and storage.

Packaging for Different Products

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

What Can Be Packaged Using a Flow Wrapper?

Flow wrapping machinery can be used for many food and non-food products.

Typical applications include:

Biscuits
Bakery products
Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery
Fresh produce
Selected frozen products
Medical devices
Pharmaceutical goods
Personal care products
Domestic and consumer products
Hardware components

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.

Available film options include:

BOPP film
Polyolefin film
Polyethylene (PE)
Polyethylene terephthalate film

Film selection should take account of the item, shelf-life needs, pack appearance and operating conditions.

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
Manual packaging slows the production line
Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent
You need more repeatable packaging results
Manual packaging is becoming more expensive

Automatic packaging can improve productivity while maintaining consistent pack quality.

How Do You Choose a Flow Wrapping Machine?

Machine selection requires an assessment of pack format, output and future demand.

Useful machine features include:

Maximum production speed

Supported product dimensions
Fast and straightforward changeovers
Photocell registration for printed films
Integrated date or batch coding
Compatibility with automatic feeding systems
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.

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. Flow wrapping machinery can often be integrated with equipment already in use.

Compatible equipment may include automatic feeders, conveyors and labelling systems. This allows manufacturers to increase packaging output without rebuilding the entire production process.

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.

The company offers installation, start-up support, servicing and continued technical help. These services can help businesses keep equipment operating consistently.

Questions About Flow Wrapping Machinery