A flow wrapper is an automated packaging system that surrounds products with a continuous flexible film. The machine forms a seal along the length of the pack and seals at both ends 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 production lines that require fast and consistent packaging.
What Is the Flow Wrapping Process?
A flow wrapping machine uses a continuous roll of flexible film to produce repeatable sealed packs.
1. Automatic Product Feeding
Products enter the wrapping section through an automatic conveyor or feeding arrangement.
2. The Film Is Formed Around the Product
As the item travels forward, the machine forms the flexible film around it.
3. The Length Seal Is Formed
A longitudinal seal joins the film beneath or above the product, forming a continuous tube.
4. End Sealing and Cutting
Cross seals are formed at each end before the package is cut from the continuous film.
5. Pack Exit
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
Flow wrapping machinery can process thousands of products every hour when the equipment and application allow.
Consistent Packaging Quality
The machine applies consistent seals and pack formatting to every item. This can help keep retail packs neat and recognisable.
Reduced Labour Costs
Flow wrapping machinery limits the need for employees to wrap every product by hand. Staff can therefore spend less time on repetitive packaging work.
Product Protection
A closed flow-wrapped pack provides protection from dust, damp conditions, contamination and physical contact during storage and transport.
Flexible Packaging Options
The equipment can be configured for varied product formats and packaging materials.
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
- Fresh produce
- Selected frozen products
- Medical devices
- Pharmaceutical goods
- 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?
Different film materials can be used according to the packaging requirements.
Frequently used films include:
- BOPP film
- Polyolefin film
- Polyethylene (PE)
- PET 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?
Many businesses move to automatic flow wrapping when manual packaging begins to restrict production.
You may benefit from upgrading when:
- Your required packaging output is rising
- Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck
- Packaging quality varies between operators
- You need more repeatable packaging results
- Manual packaging is becoming more expensive
A suitable flow wrapper can raise output and produce more uniform packaging.
What Features Should You Look for in Flow Wrapping Machinery?
Several factors should be considered when selecting flow wrapping machinery.
Important features include:
- Packaging speed
- Supported product dimensions
- Easy product changeovers
- Photocell registration for printed films
- Integrated date or batch coding
- Automatic feeding integration
- User-friendly controls more info
- Consistent and dependable seals
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?
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.
Businesses should consider presentation, product characteristics and post-production handling when selecting a system.
Flow Wrapping Machine Integration
In many cases, yes. Current flow wrappers may be installed as part of an established production system.
The machine can work alongside feeding units, conveyor systems and labelling equipment. 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.
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 support dependable long-term production.
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 help shield items while they are stored, delivered or presented for sale.
Are Flow Wrappers Used for Food Packaging?
Yes. Flow wrapping is widely used for biscuits, cakes, sweets, snack products and produce. It provides closed packaging that supports hygienic handling.
Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package Non-Food Products?
Yes. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for medical items, pharmaceuticals, small components, personal care goods and household 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 wrap several thousand products per hour.