What Is a Flow Wrapping Machine?

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.

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 production lines that require fast and consistent packaging.

How Do Flow Wrapping Machines Work?

Automatic flow wrapping equipment uses a continuous roll of flexible film to wrap products at a steady production rate.

1. Product Feeding

Products are carried into the machine by a conveyor or integrated feeding system.

2. Film Forming

The machine guides the film around each product during the packaging process.

3. The Length Seal Is Formed

The film is sealed along its length to create a continuous tube around the product.

4. The Pack Is Sealed and Separated

End-sealing jaws close the package before cutting it into an individual pack.

5. The Completed Pillow Pack

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

Advantages of Flow Wrapping Machinery

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

Increased Production Rates

Depending on the machine model and product dimensions, a flow wrapper may package several thousand items each hour.

Uniform Seals and Appearance

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

Less Manual Handling

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

A Protective Film Barrier

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

Adaptable Product Handling

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

What Can Be Packaged Using a Flow Wrapper?

A flow wrapper is suitable for a wide selection of food and manufactured goods.

Products frequently packaged in this way include:

Biscuits
Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods
Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery
Fruit and vegetables
Frozen foods
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

The correct flexible film will depend on the item being packed and the conditions it must withstand.

Frequently used films include:

here

BOPP film
Polyolefin packaging film
Polyethylene film
PET film

Film selection should take account of the item, shelf-life needs, pack appearance and operating conditions.

When Should You Invest in a Flow Wrapping Machine?

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
Manual packaging is becoming more expensive

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

Key Flow Wrapper Features

The correct machine should be chosen according to the product and production requirements.

Useful machine features include:

Packaging speed
Supported product dimensions
Easy product changeovers
Photocell registration for printed films
Integrated date or batch coding
Compatibility with automatic feeding systems
User-friendly controls
Reliable sealing performance

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

Flow Wrapping Versus 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.

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.

Why Choose Kempner for Flow Wrapping Machines?

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.

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 maintain reliable packaging performance.

Flow Wrapping Machine FAQs