A flow wrapping machine is an automated packaging system that surrounds products with a continuous 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.

Flow wrappers differ from manual packaging systems because they can operate continuously. This makes the equipment suitable for production lines that require fast and consistent packaging.

How Do Flow Wrapping Machines Work?

Flow wrapping machinery uses a continuous roll of flexible film to wrap products at a steady production rate.

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. The Length Seal Is Formed

The film is sealed along its length to create a continuous tube around the product.

4. Cross Sealing and Cutting

Cross seals are formed at each end before the package is cut from the continuous film.

5. Finished Product

Once sealed and cut, the finished pack moves out of the machine ready for handling, delivery or sale.

What Are the Benefits of Flow Wrapping Machines?

Flow wrapping equipment can help manufacturers improve output and produce consistent packs.

Increased Production Rates

Automatic systems can package thousands of products per hour, depending on the product and machine specification.

Repeatable Pack Presentation

The machine applies consistent seals and pack formatting to every item. 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 focus on other production tasks.

Product Protection

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.

What Can Be Packaged Using a Flow Wrapper?

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
• 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.

Which Packaging Films Work with Flow Wrappers?

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
• Polyethylene (PE)
• PET film

The most suitable film depends on the product, required shelf life, desired presentation and production environment.

Should Your Business Move to Automatic Flow Wrapping?

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
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• Greater consistency is required
• Labour costs are increasing

Automation may provide steadier production without reducing packaging consistency.

What Features Should You Look for in Flow Wrapping Machinery?

The correct machine should be chosen according to the product and production requirements.

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

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.

Flow wrapping machinery forms film around the product before applying length and end seals.

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?

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.

Machines can be supplied with printed-film registration, optional coding systems and tailored configurations.

The company offers installation, start-up support, servicing and continued technical help. These services can help businesses keep equipment operating consistently.

Questions About Flow Wrapping Machinery

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.

Is Flow Wrapping Suitable for Food Products?

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?

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.