A automatic flow wrapping system 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. Automatic Product Feeding
Products enter the wrapping section through an automatic conveyor or feeding arrangement.
2. Film Forming
The machine guides the film around each product during the packaging process.
3. Longitudinal Sealing
A longitudinal seal joins the film beneath or above the product, forming a continuous 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?
Many manufacturers invest in flow wrapping machinery to increase production efficiency while maintaining packaging quality.
High Production Speeds
Flow wrapping machinery can process thousands of products every hour when the equipment and application allow.
Uniform Seals and Appearance
Products pass through the same controlled sealing process. This can help maintain a uniform brand appearance.
Lower Operator Requirements
Automation reduces the amount of manual handling needed during packaging. Staff can therefore focus on other production tasks.
A Protective Film Barrier
Flow wrapping helps protect products from dust, moisture, contamination and physical damage during distribution and storage.
Adaptable Product Handling
The equipment can be configured for varied product formats and packaging materials.
What Can Be Packaged Using a Flow Wrapper?
A flow wrapper is suitable for a wide selection of food and manufactured goods.
Common examples include:
- Individual or grouped biscuits
- Bakery products
- Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery
- Fresh produce
- Selected frozen products
- Medical devices
- Pharmaceutical goods
- Cosmetics and personal care items
- Household goods
- Hardware components
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.
Common materials include:
- here
- 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.
A flow wrapping machine may be suitable if:
- Production volumes continue to increase
- Manual packaging slows the production line
- Packaging quality varies between operators
- You need more repeatable packaging results
- Manual packaging is becoming more expensive
Automatic packaging can improve productivity while maintaining consistent pack quality.
How Do You Choose a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Machine selection requires an assessment of pack format, output and future demand.
Important features include:
- Packaging speed
- Product size capacity
- Easy product 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.
Businesses should consider presentation, product characteristics and post-production handling when selecting a system.
Flow Wrapping Machine Integration
Yes. Flow wrapping machinery can often be integrated with equipment already in use.
The machine can work alongside feeding units, conveyor systems and labelling equipment. 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.
Kempner supplies both horizontal and vertical machines that can be configured for different product types.
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 support dependable long-term production.
Flow Wrapping Machine FAQs
What Is the Purpose of Flow Wrapping Machinery?
A flow wrapping machine wraps separate products in flexible packaging film and produces closed pillow-shaped packs. These packs can provide protection during handling, distribution and display.
Is Flow Wrapping Suitable for Food Products?
Yes. Flow wrapping is widely used for many bakery, confectionery, snack and fresh-food applications. 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 package thousands of individual items each hour.