A automatic flow wrapping system is an automated packaging system that wraps individual products in flexible packaging film. The machine forms long seals and cross seals to create a closed package.
The finished format is usually described as a pillow pack.
Unlike manual packaging methods, flow wrapping machines are built for continuous production. 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 wrap products at a steady production rate.
1. Automatic 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
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 sealed package exits the machine and can then be stored, distributed or displayed.
Why Use a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Many manufacturers invest in flow wrapping machinery to increase production efficiency while maintaining packaging quality.
High Production Speeds
Flow wrapping machinery can process thousands of products every hour when the equipment and application allow.
Uniform Seals and Appearance
Each product receives the same seal quality and presentation. This can help maintain a uniform brand appearance.
Lower Operator Requirements
Automation reduces the amount of manual handling needed during packaging. Staff can therefore spend less time on repetitive packaging work.
A Protective Film Barrier
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
- 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 film
- 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?
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
- Manual packaging slows the production line more info
- Packaging quality varies between operators
- 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.
Specifications to review include:
- Packaging speed
- Product size capacity
- Easy product changeovers
- Printed-film registration using photocells
- Date and batch-code printing
- Automatic feeding integration
- User-friendly controls
- Reliable sealing performance
The correct choice depends on your products, current production volume and future growth plans.
How Do Flow Wrappers Differ from Shrink Wrap Machines?
Flow wrapping and shrink wrapping both involve film, but they form packs in different ways.
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. Many flow wrapping machines are designed to connect with existing production equipment.
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 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 a range of healthcare, industrial and consumer products.
How Fast Can Flow Wrapping Machines Operate?
The production rate varies according to product dimensions and machine specification. Many high-performance machines can package thousands of individual items each hour.