A flow wrapper is an automated packaging system that surrounds products with a continuous flexible film. The machine forms a longitudinal seal and two end seals to create a closed package.

Because of its shape, the finished package is commonly known as a pillow pack.

Flow wrappers differ from manual packaging systems because they can operate continuously. 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. Automatic Product Feeding

A conveyor or connected feeding system automatically moves products into the machine.

2. Film Forming

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. End Sealing and Cutting

End-sealing jaws close the package before cutting it into an individual pack.

5. Finished Product

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

Why Use a Flow Wrapping Machine?

Many manufacturers invest in flow wrapping machinery to increase production efficiency while maintaining packaging quality.

Increased Production Rates

Depending on the machine model and product dimensions, a flow wrapper may package several thousand items each hour.

Uniform Seals and Appearance

Each product receives the same seal quality and presentation. This can help produce a consistent presentation across a production run.

Lower Operator Requirements

Flow wrapping machinery limits the need for employees to wrap every product by hand. Staff can therefore spend less time on repetitive packaging work.

A Protective Film Barrier

Flow wrapping helps protect products from dust, moisture, contamination and physical damage during storage and transport.

Flexible Packaging Options

Current flow wrapping systems can handle a broad selection of product dimensions, shapes and film types.

What Can Be Packaged Using a Flow Wrapper?

Flow wrapping machinery can be used for many food and non-food products.

Common examples include:

• Biscuits
• Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods
• Chocolate and confectionery
• Fresh produce
• Selected frozen products
• Medical devices
• Pharmaceutical goods
• Cosmetics and personal care items
• Household goods
• Hardware components

Because it can package both food and non-food goods, flow wrapping is widely used across manufacturing industries.

What Films Can a Flow Wrapping Machine Use?

A flow wrapping machine can use several flexible packaging films depending on the product and application.

Frequently used films 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.

When Is It Time to Use Flow Wrapping Machinery?

Companies often adopt flow wrapping machinery when hand packaging can no longer keep pace with demand.

A flow wrapping machine may be suitable if:

• Production volumes continue to increase
• Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck
• Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent
• 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
• Date and batch-code printing
• Automatic feeding integration
• User-friendly controls
flow wrapping machine
• Reliable sealing performance

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

Flow Wrapping Versus Shrink Wrapping

Although both methods use flexible film, the packaging processes are different.

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. 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 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.

Kempner supplies both horizontal and vertical machines that can be configured for different product types.

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 support dependable long-term production.

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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.

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.