A flow wrapping machine is an automated packaging system that wraps individual products in flexible packaging 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 Does Flow Wrapping Machinery Work?

A flow wrapping machine uses a continuous roll of flexible film to package products quickly and consistently.

1. Automatic Product Feeding

Products enter the wrapping section through an automatic conveyor or feeding arrangement.

2. The Film Is Formed Around the Product

The packaging film is shaped around each product as it moves through the machine.

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

The machine creates end seals and then separates each pack from the film web.

5. Pack Exit

The sealed package exits the machine and can then be stored, distributed or displayed.

Advantages of Flow Wrapping Machinery

Flow wrapping equipment can help manufacturers improve output and produce consistent packs.

Fast Packaging Output

Depending on the machine model and product dimensions, a flow wrapper may package several thousand items each hour.

Uniform Seals and Appearance

Products pass through the same controlled sealing process. This can help maintain a uniform brand appearance.

Reduced Labour Costs

An automated system reduces hands-on work throughout the wrapping process. Staff can therefore focus on other production tasks.

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.

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:

• Individual or grouped biscuits
• Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods
• Chocolate and confectionery
• Fruit and vegetables
• Selected frozen products
• Medical devices
• Pharmaceutical products
• Cosmetics and personal care items
• Domestic and consumer products
• Small industrial and hardware parts

Flow wrapping is used throughout many industries because it can handle both edible products and manufactured items.

Which Packaging Films Work with Flow Wrappers?

Different film materials can be used according to the packaging requirements.

Common materials include:

• Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
• Polyolefin packaging film
• Polyethylene film
• Polyethylene terephthalate film

The most suitable film depends on the product, required shelf life, desired presentation and production environment.

Should Your Business Move to Automatic Flow Wrapping?

Companies often adopt flow wrapping machinery when hand packaging can no longer keep pace with demand.

You may benefit from upgrading when:

• Your required packaging output is rising
• Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck
• Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent
• Greater consistency is required
• Manual packaging is becoming more expensive

Automatic packaging can improve productivity while maintaining consistent pack quality.

Key Flow Wrapper Features

The correct machine should be chosen according to the product and production requirements.

Useful machine features include:

• Maximum production speed
• Product size capacity
• Fast and straightforward changeovers
• Photocell registration for printed films
• Date and batch-code printing
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• Automatic feeding integration
• Clear operator controls
• Reliable sealing performance

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 wrapping machine forms a sealed pillow pack from a continuous roll of film.

Shrink wrapping places film around the item and then uses heat to contract it closely around the outside.

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?

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 add automated packaging without making major changes to the full production line.

Kempner Flow Wrapping Systems

Kempner has more than 50 years of experience supplying packaging machinery and materials throughout the UK.

Its range includes horizontal and vertical flow wrapping systems for food and non-food products.

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 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 help shield items while they are stored, delivered or presented for sale.

Is Flow Wrapping Suitable for Food Products?

Yes. 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, 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 wrap several thousand products per hour.