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.
Because of its shape, the finished package is commonly known 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 manufacturers processing high volumes of products.
How Do Flow Wrapping Machines Work?
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 packaging film is shaped around each product as it moves through the machine.
3. The Length Seal Is Formed
The film is sealed along its length to create a continuous tube around the product.
4. Cross Sealing and Cutting
End-sealing jaws close the package before cutting it into an individual pack.
5. Finished Product
Once sealed and cut, the finished pack moves out of the machine ready for handling, delivery or sale.
Why Use a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Many manufacturers invest in flow wrapping machinery to increase production efficiency while maintaining packaging quality.
Fast Packaging Output
Automatic systems can package thousands of products per hour, depending on the product and machine specification.
Consistent Packaging Quality
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
An automated system reduces hands-on work throughout the wrapping process. Staff can therefore spend less time on repetitive packaging work.
A Protective Film Barrier
Flow wrapping helps protect products from dust, moisture, contamination and physical damage during storage and transport.
Flexible Packaging Options
Modern machines can package many product sizes and shapes using different flexible films.
Which Products Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package?
Flow wrapping machinery can be used for many food and non-food products.
Typical applications include:
- Individual or grouped biscuits
- Bakery products
- Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery
- Fresh produce
- Selected frozen products
- Medical products and devices
- Pharmaceutical goods
- Cosmetics and personal care items
- Household goods
- Hardware components
Flow wrapping is used throughout many industries because it can handle both edible products and manufactured items.
Flow Wrapping Film Options
The correct flexible film will depend on the item being packed and the conditions it must withstand.
Frequently used films include:
- BOPP film
- Polyolefin packaging film
- Polyethylene (PE)
- PET 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.
Signs that an upgrade may be needed include:
- 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
Automation may provide steadier production without reducing packaging consistency.
Key Flow Wrapper Features
The correct machine should be chosen according to the product and production requirements.
Useful machine features include:
- Packaging speed
- Supported product dimensions
- Fast and straightforward changeovers
- Photocell registration for printed films
- Date and batch-code printing
- Automatic feeding integration
- User-friendly controls more info
- 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?
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.
A shrink wrap machine surrounds the product with shrink film before applying heat to tighten the material.
The choice will depend on the desired pack format, the product and how it will be stored or transported.
Can a Flow Wrapper Integrate with Existing Equipment?
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 raise production capacity without replacing every existing system.
Flow Wrapping Machinery from Kempner
Kempner UK 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.
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 maintain reliable packaging performance.
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. 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 a range of healthcare, industrial and consumer products.
How Fast Can Flow Wrapping Machines Operate?
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.