A automatic flow wrapping system is an automated packaging system that wraps individual products in flexible packaging film. The machine forms long seals and cross seals to create a closed package.
The completed package is often called a pillow pack because of its shape.
Unlike manual packaging methods, flow wrapping machines are built for continuous production. This makes the equipment suitable for businesses that need to package large quantities efficiently.
What Is the Flow Wrapping Process?
A flow wrapping machine uses a continuous roll of flexible film to package products quickly and consistently.
1. Automatic Product Feeding
A conveyor or connected feeding system automatically moves products into the machine.
2. Film Forming
The packaging film is shaped around each product as it moves through the machine.
3. The Length Seal Is Formed
A longitudinal seal joins the film beneath or above the product, forming a continuous tube.
4. The Pack Is Sealed and Separated
The machine creates end seals and then separates each pack from the film web.
5. Finished Product
The completed pillow pack leaves the machine ready for storage, transport or retail display.
What Are the Benefits of Flow Wrapping Machines?
Flow wrapping equipment can help manufacturers improve output and produce consistent packs.
High Production Speeds
Flow wrapping machinery can process thousands of products every hour when the equipment and application allow.
Uniform Seals and Appearance
Each product receives the same seal quality and presentation. This can help produce a consistent presentation across a production run.
Less Manual Handling
Automation reduces the amount of manual handling needed during packaging. Staff can therefore focus on other production tasks.
Product Protection
Flow wrapping helps protect products from dust, moisture, contamination and physical damage during storage and transport.
Flexible Packaging Options
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.
Products frequently packaged in this way include:
- Biscuits
- Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods
- Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery
- Fresh produce
- Selected frozen products
- Medical devices
- Pharmaceutical products
- Cosmetics and personal care items
- Household goods
- Small industrial and hardware parts
Flow wrapping is used throughout many industries because it can handle both edible products and manufactured items.
Which Packaging Films Work with Flow Wrappers?
Different film materials can be used according to the packaging requirements.
Common materials include:
- Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
- Polyolefin film
- Polyethylene (PE)
- PET film
The most suitable film depends on the product, required shelf life, desired presentation and production environment.
When Is It Time to Use Flow Wrapping Machinery?
Many businesses move to automatic flow wrapping when manual packaging begins to restrict production.
A flow wrapping machine may be suitable if:
- Your required packaging output is rising
- 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 read more
- Automatic feeding integration
- User-friendly controls
- 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?
Although both methods use flexible film, the packaging processes are different.
A flow wrapper creates a closed pillow-shaped pack using continuous film.
With shrink wrapping, the product is enclosed in film that shrinks when it passes through a heat tunnel.
The right method depends on the required appearance, product type and handling conditions after packaging.
Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Be Added to an Existing Production Line?
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 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.
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 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 wrap several thousand products per hour.