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 production lines that require fast and consistent packaging.

How Do Flow Wrapping Machines Work?

Automatic flow wrapping equipment uses a continuous roll of flexible film to wrap products at a steady production rate.

1. Product Feeding

Products are carried into the machine by a conveyor or integrated feeding system.

2. Packaging Film Positioning

As the item travels forward, the machine forms the flexible film around it.

3. Longitudinal Sealing

The film is sealed along its length to create a continuous tube around the product.

4. The Pack Is Sealed and Separated

End-sealing jaws close the package before cutting it into an individual pack.

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.

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.

Lower Operator Requirements

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

A closed flow-wrapped pack provides protection from dust, damp conditions, contamination and physical contact during distribution and storage.

Adaptable Product Handling

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

What Can Be Packaged Using a Flow Wrapper?

A flow wrapper is suitable for a wide selection of food and manufactured goods.

Products frequently packaged in this way include:

• Biscuits
• Bakery products
• Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery
• Fruit and vegetables
• Selected frozen products
• Medical devices
• Pharmaceutical products
• Personal care products
• Domestic and consumer products
• Small industrial and hardware parts

Its suitability for food and non-food applications makes flow wrapping a common packaging method in manufacturing.

Flow Wrapping Film Options

The correct flexible film will depend on the item being packed and the conditions it must withstand.

Available film options include:

• BOPP film
• Polyolefin film
• Polyethylene (PE)
• Polyethylene terephthalate film

The correct material will be determined by the product type, storage period, presentation requirements and production setting.

When Should You Invest in a Flow Wrapping Machine?

Many businesses move to automatic flow wrapping when manual packaging begins to restrict production.

You may benefit from upgrading when:

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• Your required packaging output is rising
• Manual packaging slows the production line
• Packaging quality varies between operators
• 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?

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

Specifications to review include:

• Maximum production speed
• Product size capacity
• Easy product changeovers
• Printed-film registration using photocells
• Integrated date or batch coding
• Compatibility with automatic feeding systems
• User-friendly controls
• Reliable sealing performance

Machine suitability will be determined by the items being packed, required output and expected business growth.

Flow Wrapping Versus Shrink Wrapping

Flow wrapping and shrink wrapping both involve film, but they form packs in different ways.

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?

In many cases, yes. Current flow wrappers may be installed as part of an established production system.

Integration options commonly include automatic product feeders, conveyors and label applicators. This allows manufacturers to raise production capacity without replacing every existing system.

Why Choose Kempner for Flow Wrapping Machines?

Kempner UK 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.

Available options include photocell registration, date or batch coding and machine configurations for specific production needs.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What Does a Flow Wrapper Package?

A flow wrapping machine packages individual products in flexible film to form sealed pillow packs. These packs can provide protection during handling, distribution and display.

Is Flow Wrapping Suitable for Food Products?

Yes, they are. Flow wrapping is widely used for bakery goods, confectionery, snacks and fresh produce. It provides a hygienic sealed pack.

Can a Flow Wrapper Be Used for Manufactured Goods?

Yes, they can. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for medical items, pharmaceuticals, small components, personal care goods and household products.

What Is the Speed of a Flow Wrapping Machine?

The production rate varies according to product dimensions and machine specification. Many high-performance machines can wrap several thousand products per hour.