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.
The finished format is usually described as a pillow pack.
Unlike manual packaging methods, flow wrapping machines are built for continuous production. This makes the equipment suitable for businesses that need to package large quantities efficiently.
How Does Flow Wrapping Machinery Work?
Automatic flow wrapping equipment 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. The Length Seal Is Formed
The machine seals the film lengthways so that it surrounds the product in a tube.
4. End Sealing and Cutting
End-sealing jaws close the package before cutting it into an individual pack.
5. Pack Exit
The sealed package exits the machine and can then be stored, distributed or displayed.
Why Use a Flow Wrapping Machine?
Many manufacturers invest in flow wrapping machinery to increase production efficiency while maintaining packaging quality.
High Production Speeds
Flow wrapping machinery can process thousands of products every hour when the equipment and application allow.
Uniform Seals and Appearance
Products pass through the same controlled sealing process. This can help maintain a uniform brand appearance.
Lower Operator Requirements
Automation reduces the amount of manual handling needed during packaging. Staff can therefore spend less time on repetitive packaging work.
A Protective Film Barrier
A closed flow-wrapped pack provides protection from dust, damp conditions, contamination and physical contact during distribution and storage.
Packaging for Different Products
Current flow wrapping systems can handle a broad selection of product dimensions, shapes and film types.
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
- 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
The correct flexible film will depend on the item being packed and the conditions it must withstand.
Common materials include:
- 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?
Companies often adopt flow wrapping machinery when hand packaging can no longer keep pace with demand.
A flow wrapping machine may be suitable if:
- Your required packaging output is rising
- Manual packaging slows the production line get more info
- 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.
What Features Should You Look for in Flow Wrapping Machinery?
The correct machine should be chosen according to the product and production requirements.
Useful machine features include:
- Maximum production speed
- Supported product dimensions
- Fast and straightforward changeovers
- Photocell registration for printed films
- Integrated date or batch coding
- 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.
Flow Wrapping Versus Shrink Wrapping
Both systems package products in flexible material, although their operating methods differ.
A flow wrapping machine forms a sealed pillow pack from a continuous roll of film.
A shrink wrap machine surrounds the product with shrink film before applying heat to tighten the material.
The right method depends on the required appearance, product type and handling conditions after packaging.
Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Be Added to an Existing Production Line?
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 increase packaging output without rebuilding the entire production process.
Kempner Flow Wrapping Systems
Kempner has supplied packaging machines and materials across the UK for over five decades.
Kempner supplies both horizontal and vertical machines that can be configured for different product types.
Available options include photocell registration, date or batch coding and machine configurations for specific production needs.
Kempner also provides installation, commissioning, servicing and ongoing technical support. These services can help businesses support dependable long-term production.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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 secure and hygienic packaging.
Can a Flow Wrapper Be Used for Manufactured Goods?
Yes, they can. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for a range of healthcare, industrial and consumer products.
How Fast Can Flow Wrapping Machines Operate?
The production rate varies according to product dimensions and machine specification. Many high-performance machines can produce several thousand sealed packs in an hour.