What Is a Flow Wrapping Machine?

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.

Rather than relying on repeated manual wrapping, flow wrapping machinery supports a continuous packaging process. This makes the equipment suitable for production lines that require fast and consistent packaging.

What Is the Flow Wrapping Process?

A flow wrapping machine uses a continuous roll of flexible film to package products quickly and consistently.

1. Products Enter the Machine

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

2. Packaging Film Positioning

As the item travels forward, the machine forms the flexible film around it.

3. Sealing Along the Pack

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

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

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

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

Repeatable Pack Presentation

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

An automated system reduces hands-on work throughout the wrapping process. Staff can therefore spend less time on repetitive packaging work.

Protection During Storage and Transport

A closed flow-wrapped pack provides protection from dust, damp conditions, contamination and physical contact during warehousing, handling and delivery.

Packaging for Different Products

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

Which Products Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package?

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

Typical applications 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

Its suitability for food and non-food applications makes flow wrapping a common packaging method in manufacturing.

What Films Can a Flow Wrapping Machine Use?

The correct flexible film will depend on the item being packed and the conditions it must withstand.

Frequently used films include:

Biaxially oriented polypropylene 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
Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck
Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent
Greater consistency is required

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Labour costs are increasing

Automation may provide steadier production without reducing packaging consistency.

Key Flow Wrapper Features

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

Machine suitability will be determined by the items being packed, required output and expected business growth.

Flow Wrapping Versus Shrink Wrapping

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

A flow wrapping machine forms a sealed pillow pack from a continuous roll of film.

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

The choice will depend on the desired pack format, the product and how it will be stored or transported.

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 maintain reliable packaging performance.

Questions About Flow Wrapping Machinery