What Does a Flow Wrapping Machine Do?

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.

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?

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. 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

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?

Businesses often choose flow wrapping machines when they need faster production and repeatable packaging results.

Increased Production Rates

Depending on the machine model and product dimensions, a flow wrapper may package several thousand items each hour.

Repeatable Pack Presentation

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

Flow wrapping machinery limits the need for employees to wrap every product by hand. Staff can therefore be assigned to other duties.

Product Protection

Flow wrapping helps protect products from dust, moisture, contamination and physical 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

The process can package products from several different sectors.

Products frequently packaged in this way include:

• 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

Flow wrapping is used throughout many industries because it can handle both edible products and manufactured items.

What Films Can a Flow Wrapping Machine Use?

A flow wrapping machine can use several flexible packaging films depending on the product and application.

Frequently used films include:

• Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
• Polyolefin film
• Polyethylene (PE)
• 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
• You need more repeatable packaging results
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• Labour costs are increasing

A suitable flow wrapper can raise output and produce more uniform packaging.

How Do You Choose a Flow Wrapping Machine?

Machine selection requires an assessment of pack format, output and future demand.

Important 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

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 Flow Wrapping Machinery Be Added to an Existing Production Line?

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 raise production capacity without replacing every existing system.

Why Choose Kempner for Flow Wrapping Machines?

Kempner UK 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.

Systems may include printed-film controls, coding equipment and layouts adapted to individual applications.

Support services include machine installation, commissioning, maintenance and technical assistance. These services can help businesses maintain reliable packaging performance.

Flow Wrapping Machine FAQs

What Is the Purpose of Flow Wrapping Machinery?

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 medical items, pharmaceuticals, small components, personal care goods and household products.

What Is the Speed of a Flow Wrapping Machine?

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.