A automatic flow wrapping system 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.
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?
Flow wrapping machinery 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. Film Forming
The machine guides the film around each product during the packaging process.
3. The Length Seal Is Formed
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. Pack Exit
The completed pillow pack leaves the machine ready for storage, transport or retail display.
Why Use a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Many manufacturers invest in flow wrapping machinery to increase production efficiency while maintaining packaging quality.
Fast Packaging Output
Automatic systems can package thousands of products per hour, depending on the product and machine specification.
Repeatable Pack Presentation
Each product receives the same seal quality and presentation. This can help produce a consistent presentation across a production run.
Lower Operator Requirements
Automation reduces the amount of manual handling needed during packaging. 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.
Flexible Packaging Options
Current flow wrapping systems can handle a broad selection of product dimensions, shapes and film types.
Common Flow Wrapping Applications
Flow wrapping machinery can be used for many food and non-food products.
Common examples include:
- Individual or grouped biscuits
- Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods
- Chocolate and confectionery
- Fruit and vegetables
- Selected frozen products
- Medical devices
- Pharmaceutical products
- Personal care products
- Household goods
- Hardware components
Its suitability for food and non-food applications makes flow wrapping a common packaging method in manufacturing.
Which Packaging Films Work with Flow Wrappers?
Different film materials can be used according to the packaging requirements.
Available film options include:
- Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
- Polyolefin film flow wrap machine
- Polyethylene film
- Polyethylene terephthalate film
The correct material will be determined by the product type, storage period, presentation requirements and production setting.
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
- Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent
- 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?
The correct machine should be chosen according to the product and production requirements.
Specifications to review include:
- Maximum production speed
- Supported product dimensions
- Fast and straightforward changeovers
- Printed-film registration using photocells
- Date and batch-code printing
- Compatibility with automatic feeding systems
- Clear operator controls
- Consistent and dependable seals
Your product range, packaging volume and projected demand should guide the final machine specification.
What Is the Difference Between Flow Wrapping and 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.
A shrink wrap machine surrounds the product with shrink film before applying heat to tighten the material.
Businesses should consider presentation, product characteristics and post-production handling when selecting a system.
Flow Wrapping Machine Integration
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 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.
Support services include machine installation, commissioning, maintenance and technical assistance. These services can help businesses maintain reliable packaging performance.
Flow Wrapping Machine FAQs
What Is a Flow Wrapping Machine Used For?
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 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.
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.