A flow wrapper is an automated packaging system that encloses products in flexible film. The machine forms a longitudinal seal and two end seals 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 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 MachineProducts are carried into the machine by a conveyor or integrated feeding system.2. Packaging Film PositioningThe packaging film is shaped around each product as it moves through the machine.3. The Length Seal Is FormedThe film is sealed along its length to create a continuous tube around the product.4. Cross Sealing and CuttingEnd-sealing jaws close the package before cutting it into an individual pack.5. Finished ProductOnce sealed and cut, the finished pack moves out of the machine ready for handling, delivery or sale.Advantages of Flow Wrapping MachineryFlow wrapping equipment can help manufacturers improve output and produce consistent packs.Fast Packaging OutputAutomatic systems can package thousands of products per hour, depending on the product and machine specification.Consistent Packaging QualityEach product receives the same seal quality and presentation. 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?The process can package products from several different sectors.Products frequently packaged in this way include: Biscuits Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods Chocolate and confectionery Fruit and vegetables Frozen foods Medical devices Pharmaceutical products Personal care products Domestic and consumer products 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 film Polyethylene terephthalate film Film selection should take account of the item, shelf-life needs, pack appearance and operating conditions.Should Your Business Move to Automatic Flow Wrapping?An automatic flow wrapper may become suitable when manual processes start slowing the production line.You may benefit from upgrading when: Production volumes continue to increase Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent You need more repeatable packaging results Labour costs are increasing A suitable flow wrapper can raise output and produce more uniform packaging.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 Date and batch-code printing Compatibility with automatic feeding systems Clear operator controls read more 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?Flow wrapping and shrink wrapping both involve film, but they form packs in different ways.A flow wrapper creates a closed pillow-shaped pack using continuous film.With shrink wrapping, the product is enclosed in film that shrinks when it passes through a heat tunnel.Businesses should consider presentation, product characteristics and post-production handling when selecting a system.Can a Flow Wrapper Integrate with Existing Equipment?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.Flow Wrapping Machinery from KempnerKempner 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.Kempner also provides installation, commissioning, servicing and ongoing technical support. 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.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.