A flow wrapper 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.
Flow wrappers differ from manual packaging systems because they can operate continuously. This makes the equipment suitable for manufacturers processing high volumes of products.
How Do Flow Wrapping Machines Work?
Flow wrapping machinery uses a continuous roll of flexible film to package products quickly and consistently.
1. Automatic Product Feeding
Products are carried into the machine by a conveyor or integrated feeding system.
2. Packaging Film Positioning
The machine guides the film around each product during the packaging process.
3. Longitudinal Sealing
The film is sealed along its length to create a continuous tube around the product.
4. End 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 sealed package exits the machine and can then be stored, distributed or displayed.
Advantages of Flow Wrapping Machinery
Businesses often choose flow wrapping machines when they need faster production and repeatable packaging results.
High Production Speeds
Automatic systems can package thousands of products per hour, depending on the product and machine specification.
Repeatable Pack Presentation
Products pass through the same controlled sealing process. This can help maintain a uniform brand appearance.
Less Manual Handling
Automation reduces the amount of manual handling needed during packaging. 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 warehousing, handling and delivery.
Packaging for Different Products
The equipment can be configured for varied product formats and packaging materials.
Common Flow Wrapping Applications
The process can package products from several different sectors.
Products frequently packaged in this way include:
- Individual or grouped biscuits
- Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods
- Chocolate and confectionery
- Fresh produce
- Selected frozen products
- Medical products and devices
- Pharmaceutical products
- Personal care products
- Domestic and consumer products
- Hardware components
Because it can package both food and non-food goods, flow wrapping is widely used across manufacturing industries.
What Films Can a Flow Wrapping Machine Use?
A flow wrapping machine can use several flexible packaging films depending on the product and application.
Common materials include:
- Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
- Polyolefin film
- Polyethylene (PE)
- 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.
Signs that an upgrade may be needed include:
- Your required packaging output is rising
- Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck
- Packaging quality varies between operators
- Greater consistency is required
- Labour costs are increasing
Automation may provide steadier production without reducing packaging consistency.
What Features Should You Look for in Flow Wrapping Machinery?
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 get more info
- User-friendly controls
- Reliable sealing performance
Your product range, packaging volume and projected demand should guide the final machine specification.
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 choice will depend on the desired pack format, the product and how it will be stored or transported.
Flow Wrapping Machine Integration
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.
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.
Kempner also provides installation, commissioning, servicing and ongoing technical support. These services can help businesses maintain reliable packaging performance.
Questions About Flow Wrapping Machinery
What Is the Purpose of Flow Wrapping Machinery?
A flow wrapping machine wraps separate products in flexible packaging film and produces closed pillow-shaped packs. 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 bakery goods, confectionery, snacks and fresh produce. It provides a hygienic sealed pack.
Are Flow Wrappers Suitable for Non-Food Items?
Yes, they can. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, hardware, cosmetics and consumer goods.
What Is the Speed of a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Packaging speed is affected by the equipment model, pack format and item being handled. Many high-performance machines can produce several thousand sealed packs in an hour.