A automatic flow wrapping system is an automated packaging system that encloses products in 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.

Flow wrappers differ from manual packaging systems because they can operate continuously. 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 produce repeatable sealed packs.

1. Product Feeding

Products are carried into the machine by a conveyor or integrated feeding system.

2. The Film Is Formed Around the Product

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. The Pack Is Sealed and Separated

The machine creates end seals and then separates each pack from the film web.

5. The Completed Pillow Pack

The completed pillow pack leaves the machine ready for storage, transport or retail display.

What Are the Benefits of Flow Wrapping Machines?

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

Increased Production Rates

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

Consistent Packaging Quality

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

The sealed film can shield products against dirt, moisture, contamination and handling 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.

Common materials include:

• BOPP film
• Polyolefin packaging film
• Polyethylene (PE)
• PET film

The correct material will be determined by the product type, storage period, presentation requirements and production setting.

When Is It Time to Use Flow Wrapping Machinery?

Many businesses move to automatic flow wrapping when manual packaging begins to restrict production.

Signs that an upgrade may be needed include:

• Your required packaging output is rising
• Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck
• Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent
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• You need more repeatable packaging results
• 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.

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
• Reliable sealing performance

Your product range, packaging volume and projected demand should guide the final machine specification.

Flow Wrapping Versus Shrink Wrapping

Both systems package products in flexible material, although their operating methods differ.

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

A shrink wrap machine surrounds the product with shrink film before applying heat to tighten the material.

The right method depends on the required appearance, product type and handling conditions after packaging.

Flow Wrapping Machine Integration

In many cases, yes. Flow wrapping machinery can often be integrated with equipment already in use.

Compatible equipment may include automatic feeders, conveyors and labelling systems. This allows manufacturers to increase packaging output without rebuilding the entire production process.

Kempner Flow Wrapping Systems

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.

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 Is a Flow Wrapping Machine Used For?

A flow wrapping machine wraps separate products in flexible packaging film and produces closed pillow-shaped packs. These packs can protect products during storage, transport and retail display.

Can Food Be Packaged with a Flow Wrapper?

Yes. Flow wrapping is widely used for many bakery, confectionery, snack and fresh-food applications. 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.

How Many Products Can a Flow Wrapper Package?

Operating speed depends on the machine and the product being packaged. Many high-performance machines can wrap several thousand products per hour.