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?
Flow wrapping machinery uses a continuous roll of flexible film to produce repeatable sealed packs.
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. Longitudinal Sealing
A longitudinal seal joins the film beneath or above the product, forming a continuous tube.
4. The Pack Is Sealed and Separated
Cross seals are formed at each end before the package is cut from the continuous film.
5. The Completed Pillow Pack
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.
Fast Packaging Output
Automatic systems can package thousands of products per hour, depending on the product and machine specification.
Consistent Packaging Quality
Each product receives the same seal quality and presentation. This can help maintain a uniform brand appearance.
Reduced Labour Costs
Automation reduces the amount of manual handling needed during packaging. Staff can therefore focus on other production tasks.
A Protective Film Barrier
Flow wrapping helps protect products from dust, moisture, contamination and physical damage during distribution and storage.
Adaptable Product Handling
The equipment can be configured for varied product formats and packaging materials.
What Can Be Packaged Using a Flow Wrapper?
Flow wrapping machinery can be used for many food and non-food products.
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
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 film
- Polyethylene (PE)
- Polyethylene terephthalate 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?
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
- 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
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 more info
- Fast and straightforward changeovers
- Photocell registration for printed films
- Integrated date or batch coding
- Compatibility with automatic feeding systems
- User-friendly 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.
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 keep equipment operating consistently.
Questions About Flow Wrapping Machinery
What Does a Flow Wrapper Package?
A flow wrapping machine creates sealed film packs around individual items. These packs can protect products during storage, transport and retail display.
Can Food Be Packaged with a Flow Wrapper?
Yes, they are. 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. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for a range of healthcare, industrial and consumer 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 package thousands of individual items each hour.