A automatic flow wrapping system 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.

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 manufacturers processing high volumes of products.

How Do Flow Wrapping Machines Work?

Flow wrapping machinery uses a continuous roll of flexible film to package products quickly and consistently.

1. Products Enter the Machine

Products enter the wrapping section through an automatic conveyor or feeding arrangement.

2. The Film Is Formed Around the Product

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

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

5. Finished Product

The completed pillow pack leaves the machine ready for storage, transport or retail display.

Why Use a Flow Wrapping Machine?

Flow wrapping equipment can help manufacturers improve output and produce consistent packs.

Fast Packaging Output

Flow wrapping machinery can process thousands of products every hour when the equipment and application allow.

Repeatable Pack Presentation

The machine applies consistent seals and pack formatting to every item. This can help keep retail packs neat and recognisable.

Reduced Labour Costs

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

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.

What Can Be Packaged Using a Flow Wrapper?

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

Common examples include:

• Individual or grouped biscuits
• Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods
• Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery
• Fruit and vegetables
• Frozen foods
• Medical products and devices
• Pharmaceutical products
• Cosmetics and personal care items
• 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)
• PET film

The most suitable film depends on the product, required shelf life, desired presentation and production environment.

Should Your Business Move to Automatic Flow Wrapping?

Many businesses move to automatic flow wrapping when manual packaging begins to restrict production.

You may benefit from upgrading when:

• Production volumes continue to increase
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• Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck
• Packaging quality varies between operators
• You need more repeatable packaging results
• Manual packaging is becoming more expensive

A suitable flow wrapper can raise output and produce more uniform packaging.

How Do You Choose a Flow Wrapping Machine?

Several factors should be considered when selecting flow wrapping machinery.

Important features include:

• Maximum production speed
• Product size capacity
• Fast and straightforward changeovers
• Printed-film registration using photocells
• Integrated date or batch coding
• Compatibility with automatic feeding systems
• Clear operator 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?

Although both methods use flexible film, the packaging processes are different.

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.

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. 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 raise production capacity without replacing every existing system.

Why Choose Kempner for Flow Wrapping Machines?

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.

Flow Wrapping Machine FAQs

What Does a Flow Wrapper Package?

A flow wrapping machine packages individual products in flexible film to form sealed pillow packs. These packs can help shield items while they are stored, delivered or presented for sale.

Can Food Be Packaged with a Flow Wrapper?

Yes. 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. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, hardware, cosmetics and consumer goods.

How Fast Can Flow Wrapping Machines Operate?

Operating speed depends on the machine and the product being packaged. Many high-performance machines can package thousands of individual items each hour.