What Is a Flow Wrapping Machine?

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 Does Flow Wrapping Machinery 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

The machine seals the film lengthways so that it surrounds the product in a tube.

4. End Sealing and Cutting

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

5. Finished Product

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

Advantages of Flow Wrapping Machinery

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.

Reduced Labour Costs

Automation reduces the amount of manual handling needed during packaging. Staff can therefore focus on other production tasks.

Product Protection

The sealed film can shield products against dirt, moisture, contamination and handling damage during storage and transport.

Adaptable Product Handling

Modern machines can package many product sizes and shapes using different flexible films.

Common Flow Wrapping Applications

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
Frozen foods
Medical products and devices
Pharmaceutical products
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?

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

Frequently used films include:

Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
Polyolefin film
Polyethylene film
Polyethylene terephthalate film

Film selection should take account of the item, shelf-life needs, pack appearance and operating conditions.

When Should You Invest in a Flow Wrapping Machine?

An automatic flow wrapper may become suitable when manual processes start slowing the production line.

You may benefit from upgrading when:

Production volumes continue to increase
Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck
Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent
Greater consistency is required
Labour costs are increasing

Automation may provide steadier production without reducing packaging consistency.

What Features Should You Look for in Flow Wrapping Machinery?

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

Useful machine features include:

Maximum production speed

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Supported product dimensions
Fast and straightforward changeovers
Photocell registration for printed films
Integrated date or batch coding
Compatibility with automatic feeding systems
User-friendly controls
Reliable sealing performance

Your product range, packaging volume and projected demand should guide the final machine specification.

Flow Wrapping Versus Shrink Wrapping

Although both methods use flexible film, the packaging processes are different.

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 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?

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

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.

Machines can be supplied with printed-film registration, optional coding systems and tailored configurations.

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

Questions About Flow Wrapping Machinery