A flow wrapper is an automated packaging system that surrounds products with a continuous flexible film. The machine forms long seals and cross seals to create a closed package.

The completed package is often called a pillow pack because of its shape.

Unlike manual packaging methods, flow wrapping machines are built for continuous production. 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 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

A longitudinal seal joins the film beneath or above the product, forming a continuous tube.

4. The Pack Is Sealed and Separated

The machine creates end seals and then separates each pack from the film web.

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?

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

Each product receives the same seal quality and presentation. This can help produce a consistent presentation across a production run.

Reduced Labour Costs

Flow wrapping machinery limits the need for employees to wrap every product by hand. Staff can therefore focus on other production tasks.

Product Protection

Flow wrapping helps protect products from dust, moisture, contamination and physical damage during storage and transport.

Adaptable Product Handling

The equipment can be configured for varied product formats and packaging materials.

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:

flow wrapping machines
• 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
• Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck
• Packaging quality varies between operators
• Greater consistency is required
• Labour costs are increasing

Automation may provide steadier production without reducing packaging consistency.

Key Flow Wrapper Features

Several factors should be considered when selecting flow wrapping machinery.

Specifications to review include:

• Maximum production speed
• Product size capacity
• Easy product changeovers
• Printed-film registration using photocells
• Date and batch-code printing
• Automatic feeding integration
• User-friendly controls
• Consistent and dependable seals

The correct choice depends on your products, current production volume and future growth plans.

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.

Shrink wrapping places film around the item and then uses heat to contract it closely around the outside.

Businesses should consider presentation, product characteristics and post-production handling when selecting a system.

Can a Flow Wrapper Integrate with Existing Equipment?

Yes. Many flow wrapping machines are designed to connect with existing production equipment.

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.

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.

Systems may include printed-film controls, coding equipment and layouts adapted to individual applications.

Support services include machine installation, commissioning, maintenance and technical assistance. These services can help businesses maintain reliable packaging performance.

Flow Wrapping Machine FAQs

What Is the Purpose of Flow Wrapping Machinery?

A flow wrapping machine packages individual products in flexible film to form sealed pillow packs. These packs can provide protection during handling, distribution and display.

Is Flow Wrapping Suitable for Food Products?

Yes. Flow wrapping is widely used for biscuits, cakes, sweets, snack products and 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 produce several thousand sealed packs in an hour.