Flow Wrapping Machines Explained
A automatic flow wrapping system is an automated packaging system that wraps individual products in flexible packaging 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.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 MachineA conveyor or connected feeding system automatically moves products into the machine.2. Packaging Film PositioningAs the item travels forward, the machine forms the flexible film around it.3. Sealing Along the PackA longitudinal seal joins the film beneath or above the product, forming a continuous tube.4. The Pack Is Sealed and SeparatedCross seals are formed at each end before the package is cut from the continuous film.5. The Completed Pillow PackThe completed pillow pack leaves the machine ready for storage, transport or retail display.Why Use a Flow Wrapping Machine?Many manufacturers invest in flow wrapping machinery to increase production efficiency while maintaining packaging quality.High Production SpeedsAutomatic systems can package thousands of products per hour, depending on the product and machine specification.Consistent Packaging QualityThe machine applies consistent seals and pack formatting to every item. This can help produce a consistent presentation across a production run.Less Manual HandlingFlow 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 TransportThe sealed film can shield products against dirt, moisture, contamination and handling damage during warehousing, handling and delivery.Flexible Packaging OptionsModern machines can package many product sizes and shapes using different flexible films.Which Products Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package?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 Household goods Small industrial and hardware parts 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 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.Important features include: Packaging speed Product size capacity Easy product changeovers Printed-film registration using photocells read more 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.Flow Wrapping Versus Shrink WrappingAlthough 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.Businesses should consider presentation, product characteristics and post-production handling when selecting a system.Can a Flow Wrapper Integrate with Existing Equipment?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.Why Choose Kempner for Flow Wrapping Machines?Kempner UK has supplied packaging machines and materials across the UK for over five decades.The available machinery includes horizontal and vertical flow wrappers for food and non-food applications.Available options include photocell registration, date or batch coding and machine configurations for specific production needs.The company offers installation, start-up support, servicing and continued technical help. These services can help businesses keep equipment operating consistently.Questions About Flow Wrapping MachineryWhat 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 produce several thousand sealed packs in an hour.