A automatic flow wrapping system is an automated packaging system that encloses products in flexible 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 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. Product Feeding
A conveyor or connected feeding system automatically moves products into the machine.
2. Film Forming
As the item travels forward, the machine forms the flexible film around it.
3. Longitudinal Sealing
The machine seals the film lengthways so that it surrounds the product in a tube.
4. Cross Sealing and Cutting
The machine creates end seals and then separates each pack from the film web.
5. Pack Exit
The sealed package exits the machine and can then be stored, distributed or displayed.
Advantages of Flow Wrapping Machinery
Businesses often choose flow wrapping machines when they need faster production and repeatable packaging results.
High Production Speeds
Flow wrapping machinery can process thousands of products every hour when the equipment and application allow.
Uniform Seals and Appearance
The machine applies consistent seals and pack formatting to every item. This can help keep retail packs neat and recognisable.
Reduced Labour Costs
Flow wrapping machinery limits the need for employees to wrap every product by hand. Staff can therefore spend less time on repetitive packaging work.
Protection During Storage and Transport
The sealed film can shield products against dirt, moisture, contamination and handling damage during storage and transport.
Flexible Packaging Options
The equipment can be configured for varied product formats and packaging materials.
Common Flow Wrapping Applications
Flow wrapping machinery can be used for many food and non-food products.
Products frequently packaged in this way include:
- Biscuits
- Bakery products
- Chocolate and confectionery
- Fresh produce
- Selected frozen products
- Medical devices
- Pharmaceutical goods
- Personal care products
- Domestic and consumer products
- 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.
Available film options include:
- BOPP film
- Polyolefin packaging film flow wrapping machinery
- Polyethylene film
- PET 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?
Companies often adopt flow wrapping machinery when hand packaging can no longer keep pace with demand.
You may benefit from upgrading when:
- Your required packaging output is rising
- Manual packaging slows the production line
- Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent
- You need more repeatable packaging results
- Manual packaging is becoming more expensive
A suitable flow wrapper can raise output and produce more uniform packaging.
How Do You Choose a Flow Wrapping Machine?
The correct machine should be chosen according to the product and production requirements.
Useful machine features include:
- Maximum production speed
- Product size capacity
- Easy product changeovers
- Photocell registration for printed films
- Integrated date or batch coding
- 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?
Both systems package products in flexible material, although their operating methods differ.
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 right method depends on the required appearance, product type and handling conditions after packaging.
Can a Flow Wrapper Integrate with Existing Equipment?
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 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.
Machines can be supplied with printed-film registration, optional coding systems and tailored configurations.
Support services include machine installation, commissioning, maintenance and technical assistance. These services can help businesses support dependable long-term production.
Questions About Flow Wrapping Machinery
What Is a Flow Wrapping Machine Used For?
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.
Are Flow Wrappers Used for Food Packaging?
Yes. Flow wrapping is widely used for many bakery, confectionery, snack and fresh-food applications. It provides secure and hygienic packaging.
Can a Flow Wrapper Be Used for Manufactured Goods?
Yes, they can. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, hardware, cosmetics and consumer goods.
What Is the Speed of a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Operating speed depends on the machine and the product being packaged. Many high-performance machines can package thousands of individual items each hour.