A automatic flow wrapping system is an automated packaging system that wraps individual products in flexible packaging film. The machine forms a seal along the length of the pack and seals at both ends to create a closed package.
The finished format is usually described as a pillow pack.
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. Products Enter the Machine
Products are carried into the machine by a conveyor or integrated feeding system.
2. Packaging Film Positioning
As the item travels forward, the machine forms the flexible film around it.
3. Sealing Along the Pack
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
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.
Fast Packaging Output
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 keep retail packs neat and recognisable.
Lower Operator Requirements
Automation reduces the amount of manual handling needed during packaging. Staff can therefore spend less time on repetitive packaging work.
A Protective Film Barrier
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.
Which Products Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package?
Flow wrapping machinery can be used for many food and non-food products.
Typical applications include:
- Biscuits
- Bakery products
- Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery
- Fresh produce
- Selected frozen products
- Medical devices
- Pharmaceutical goods
- Personal care products
- Domestic and consumer products
- Hardware components
Because it can package both food and non-food goods, flow wrapping is widely used across manufacturing industries.
Flow Wrapping Film Options
Different film materials can be used according to the packaging requirements.
Common materials 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
- You need more repeatable packaging results
- Labour costs are increasing
A suitable flow wrapper can raise output and produce more uniform packaging.
Key Flow Wrapper Features
Several factors should be considered when selecting flow wrapping machinery.
Important features include:
- Packaging speed
- Product size capacity
- Easy product changeovers
- Printed-film registration using photocells flow wrap machine
- Date and batch-code printing
- Automatic feeding integration
- User-friendly controls
- Consistent and dependable seals
The correct choice depends on your products, current production volume and future growth plans.
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.
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.
Businesses should consider presentation, product characteristics and post-production handling when selecting a system.
Flow Wrapping Machine Integration
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.
Flow Wrapping Machinery from Kempner
Kempner 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.
Kempner also provides installation, commissioning, servicing and ongoing technical support. These services can help businesses keep equipment operating consistently.
Questions About Flow Wrapping Machinery
What Does a Flow Wrapper Package?
A flow wrapping machine creates sealed film packs around individual items. These packs can help shield items while they are stored, delivered or presented for sale.
Can Food Be Packaged with a Flow Wrapper?
Yes, they are. Flow wrapping is widely used for bakery goods, confectionery, snacks and fresh produce. It provides a hygienic sealed pack.
Can a Flow Wrapper Be Used for Manufactured Goods?
Yes, they can. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for a range of healthcare, industrial and consumer products.
How Fast Can Flow Wrapping Machines Operate?
The production rate varies according to product dimensions and machine specification. Many high-performance machines can package thousands of individual items each hour.