A flow wrapping machine 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 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 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 produce repeatable sealed packs.1. Product FeedingProducts are carried into the machine by a conveyor or integrated feeding system.2. The Film Is Formed Around the ProductThe packaging film is shaped around each product as it moves through the machine.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 SeparatedThe machine creates end seals and then separates each pack from the film web.5. Pack ExitThe sealed package exits the machine and can then be stored, distributed or displayed.Advantages of Flow Wrapping MachineryFlow wrapping equipment can help manufacturers improve output and produce consistent packs.Fast Packaging OutputFlow wrapping machinery can process thousands of products every hour when the equipment and application allow.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 HandlingAn automated system reduces hands-on work throughout the wrapping process. Staff can therefore spend less time on repetitive packaging work.A Protective Film BarrierA closed flow-wrapped pack provides protection from dust, damp conditions, contamination and physical contact during distribution and storage.Packaging for Different ProductsThe 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.Products frequently packaged in this way include: Biscuits Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery Fruit and vegetables Selected frozen products Medical devices Pharmaceutical products Personal care products Household goods Hardware components Because it can package both food and non-food goods, flow wrapping is widely used across manufacturing industries.What Films Can a Flow Wrapping Machine Use?Different film materials can be used according to the packaging requirements.Frequently used films include: Biaxially oriented polypropylene film Polyolefin packaging film Polyethylene film Polyethylene terephthalate film The most suitable film depends on the product, required shelf life, desired presentation and production environment.When Should You Invest in a Flow Wrapping Machine?An automatic flow wrapper may become suitable when manual processes start slowing the production line.You may benefit from upgrading when: Your required packaging output is rising read more Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck Packaging quality varies between operators Greater consistency is required Manual packaging is becoming more expensive Automatic packaging can improve productivity while maintaining consistent pack quality.Key Flow Wrapper FeaturesSeveral factors should be considered when selecting flow wrapping machinery.Specifications to review include: Packaging speed Supported product dimensions Fast and straightforward changeovers Photocell registration for printed films Integrated date or batch coding Compatibility with automatic feeding systems Clear operator controls Reliable sealing performance Your product range, packaging volume and projected demand should guide the final machine specification.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.A shrink wrap machine surrounds the product with shrink film before applying heat to tighten the material.Businesses should consider presentation, product characteristics and post-production handling when selecting a system.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.Compatible equipment may include automatic feeders, conveyors and labelling systems. This allows manufacturers to increase packaging output without rebuilding the entire production process.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.Systems may include printed-film controls, coding equipment and layouts adapted to individual applications.Kempner also provides installation, commissioning, servicing and ongoing technical support. These services can help businesses support dependable long-term production.Flow Wrapping Machine FAQsWhat Is a Flow Wrapping Machine Used For?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.Is Flow Wrapping Suitable for Food Products?Yes. Flow wrapping is widely used for bakery goods, confectionery, snacks and fresh produce. It provides a hygienic sealed pack.Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package Non-Food Products?Yes. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, hardware, cosmetics and consumer goods.How Many Products Can a Flow Wrapper Package?The production rate varies according to product dimensions and machine specification. Many high-performance machines can produce several thousand sealed packs in an hour.