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.
Flow wrappers differ from manual packaging systems because they can operate continuously. This makes the equipment suitable for businesses that need to package large quantities efficiently.
What Is the Flow Wrapping Process?
Flow wrapping machinery uses a continuous roll of flexible film to produce repeatable sealed packs.
1. Product Feeding
Products enter the wrapping section through an automatic conveyor or feeding arrangement.
2. The Film Is Formed Around the Product
The machine guides the film around each product during the packaging process.
3. Longitudinal Sealing
The machine seals the film lengthways so that it surrounds the product in a tube.
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.
Why Use a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Businesses often choose flow wrapping machines when they need faster production and repeatable packaging results.
High Production Speeds
Depending on the machine model and product dimensions, a flow wrapper may package several thousand items each hour.
Repeatable Pack Presentation
The machine applies consistent seals and pack formatting to every item. This can help produce a consistent presentation across a production run.
Less Manual Handling
Flow wrapping machinery limits the need for employees to wrap every product by hand. 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 storage and transport.
Flexible Packaging Options
Modern machines can package many product sizes and shapes using different flexible films.
Common Flow Wrapping Applications
The process can package products from several different sectors.
Products frequently packaged in this way include:
- Biscuits
- Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods
- Chocolate and confectionery
- Fruit and vegetables
- Frozen foods
- 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.
What Films Can a Flow Wrapping Machine Use?
The correct flexible film will depend on the item being packed and the conditions it must withstand.
Frequently used films include:
- Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
- Polyolefin film
- Polyethylene film
- Polyethylene terephthalate 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.
You may benefit from upgrading when:
- Production volumes continue to increase
- Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck
- Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent
- You need more repeatable packaging results
- Manual packaging is becoming more expensive
A suitable flow wrapper can raise output and produce more uniform packaging.
How Do You Choose a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Machine selection requires an assessment of pack format, output and future demand.
Important features include:
- Maximum production speed
- Supported product dimensions read more
- Fast and straightforward changeovers
- Printed-film registration using photocells
- Date and batch-code printing
- Automatic feeding integration
- User-friendly controls
- Reliable sealing performance
Machine suitability will be determined by the items being packed, required output and expected business growth.
How Do Flow Wrappers Differ from Shrink Wrap Machines?
Flow wrapping and shrink wrapping both involve film, but they form packs in different ways.
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.
Kempner Flow Wrapping Systems
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.
Kempner also provides installation, commissioning, servicing and ongoing technical support. These services can help businesses keep equipment operating consistently.
Questions About Flow Wrapping Machinery
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 many bakery, confectionery, snack and fresh-food applications. It provides secure and hygienic packaging.
Can a Flow Wrapper Be Used for Manufactured Goods?
Yes. 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 package thousands of individual items each hour.