What Is a Flow Wrapping Machine?
A flow wrapping machine 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.
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 manufacturers processing high volumes of products.
How Does Flow Wrapping Machinery Work?
A flow wrapping machine uses a continuous roll of flexible film to package products quickly and consistently.
1. Products Enter the Machine
A conveyor or connected feeding system automatically moves products into the machine.
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. Cross 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.
What Are the Benefits of Flow Wrapping Machines?
Flow wrapping equipment can help manufacturers improve output and produce consistent packs.
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.
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 products and devices
- Pharmaceutical products
- Cosmetics and personal care items
- Household goods
- Small industrial and hardware parts
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)
- 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
- Packaging quality varies between operators
- Greater consistency is required
- Manual packaging is becoming more expensive
Automatic packaging can improve productivity while maintaining consistent pack quality.
What Features Should You Look for in Flow Wrapping Machinery?
Machine selection requires an assessment of pack format, output and future demand.
Useful machine features include:
- Packaging speed get more info
- 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.
How Do Flow Wrappers Differ from Shrink Wrap Machines?
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 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 add automated packaging without making major changes to the full production line.
Flow Wrapping Machinery from Kempner
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.
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.
Are Flow Wrappers Suitable for Non-Food Items?
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 wrap several thousand products per hour.