A flow wrapper 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.
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 manufacturers processing high volumes of products.
What Is the Flow Wrapping Process?
A flow wrapping machine uses a continuous roll of flexible film to produce repeatable sealed packs.
1. Products Enter the Machine
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. The Length Seal Is Formed
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
The equipment can be configured for varied product formats and packaging materials.
Common Flow Wrapping Applications
A flow wrapper is suitable for a wide selection of food and manufactured goods.
Common examples include:
- Individual or grouped 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.
Available film options include:
- BOPP film
- Polyolefin film
- Polyethylene (PE)
- PET film
The correct material will be determined by the product type, storage period, presentation requirements and production setting.
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 read more
- Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck
- Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent
- 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.
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
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 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.
The machine can work alongside feeding units, conveyor systems and labelling equipment. This allows manufacturers to raise production capacity without replacing every existing system.
Why Choose Kempner for Flow Wrapping Machines?
Kempner has more than 50 years of experience supplying packaging machinery and materials throughout the UK.
Kempner supplies both horizontal and vertical machines that can be configured for different product types.
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 support dependable long-term production.
Frequently Asked Questions
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, they are. Flow wrapping is widely used for bakery goods, confectionery, snacks and fresh produce. It provides a hygienic sealed pack.
Are Flow Wrappers Suitable for Non-Food Items?
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?
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.