A flow wrapper is an automated packaging system that encloses products in flexible film. The machine forms a seal along the length of the pack and seals at both ends to create a closed package.

The finished format is usually described 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.

How Do Flow Wrapping Machines Work?

Flow wrapping machinery uses a continuous roll of flexible film to produce repeatable sealed packs.

1. Product Feeding

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

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

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

Products pass through the same controlled sealing process. This can help keep retail packs neat and recognisable.

Reduced Labour Costs

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

Product Protection

The sealed film can shield products against dirt, moisture, contamination and handling damage during storage and transport.

Flexible Packaging Options

Modern machines can package many product sizes and shapes using different flexible films.

Common Flow Wrapping Applications

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

Typical applications include:

• 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.

Flow Wrapping Film Options

Different film materials can be used according to the packaging requirements.

Common materials include:

• Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
• Polyolefin packaging film
• Polyethylene (PE)
• Polyethylene terephthalate 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
• Manual packaging slows the production line
• Packaging quality varies between operators
• 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
• Easy product changeovers
• Printed-film registration using photocells
flow wrapping machines
• Date and batch-code printing
• Automatic feeding integration
• User-friendly controls
• Reliable sealing performance

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

What Is the Difference Between Flow Wrapping and Shrink Wrapping?

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

In many cases, 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 raise production capacity without replacing every existing system.

Kempner Flow Wrapping Systems

Kempner 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 Is a Flow Wrapping Machine Used For?

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 bakery goods, confectionery, snacks and fresh produce. It provides a hygienic sealed pack.

Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package Non-Food Products?

Yes. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for medical items, pharmaceuticals, small components, personal care goods and household products.

How Many Products Can a Flow Wrapper Package?

The production rate varies according to product dimensions and machine specification. Many high-performance machines can package thousands of individual items each hour.