A flow wrapper is an automated packaging system that surrounds products with a continuous 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 production lines that require fast and consistent packaging.
How Do Flow Wrapping Machines Work?
Flow wrapping machinery uses a continuous roll of flexible film to wrap products at a steady production rate.
1. Product Feeding
Products are carried into the machine by a conveyor or integrated feeding system.
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
The film is sealed along its length to create a continuous tube around the product.
4. The Pack Is Sealed and Separated
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.
Protection During Storage and Transport
A closed flow-wrapped pack provides protection from dust, damp conditions, contamination and physical contact during distribution and storage.
Packaging for Different Products
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.
Common examples include:
- Individual or grouped biscuits
- Bakery products
- Chocolate and confectionery
- Fruit and vegetables
- Frozen foods
- Medical products and devices
- Pharmaceutical products
- Personal care products
- Domestic and consumer products
- Hardware components
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.
Available film options include:
- BOPP film more info
- 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?
An automatic flow wrapper may become suitable when manual processes start slowing the production line.
You may benefit from upgrading when:
- Your required packaging output is rising
- Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck
- Packaging quality varies between operators
- 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?
Machine selection requires an assessment of pack format, output and future demand.
Useful machine features include:
- Maximum production speed
- Supported product dimensions
- Fast and straightforward changeovers
- Photocell registration for printed films
- Integrated date or batch coding
- Compatibility with automatic feeding systems
- Clear operator controls
- Consistent and dependable seals
The correct choice depends on your products, current production volume and future growth plans.
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.
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. Many flow wrapping machines are designed to connect with existing production equipment.
Compatible equipment may include automatic feeders, conveyors and labelling systems. 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.
Questions About Flow Wrapping Machinery
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 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 produce several thousand sealed packs in an hour.