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 production lines that require fast and consistent packaging.

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

4. Cross Sealing and Cutting

Cross seals are formed at each end before the package is cut from the continuous film.

5. The Completed Pillow Pack

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

Why Use a Flow Wrapping Machine?

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 focus on other production tasks.

Product Protection

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

Flexible Packaging Options

Modern 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.

Common examples include:

• Individual or grouped biscuits
• Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods
• Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery
• Fruit and vegetables
• Selected frozen products
• Medical products and devices
• Pharmaceutical goods
• Cosmetics and personal care items
• 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?

A flow wrapping machine can use several flexible packaging films depending on the product and application.

Common materials include:

• Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
• Polyolefin film
• Polyethylene (PE)
• PET film

The correct material will be determined by the product type, storage period, presentation requirements and production setting.

Should Your Business Move to Automatic Flow Wrapping?

Companies often adopt flow wrapping machinery when hand packaging can no longer keep pace with demand.

Signs that an upgrade may be needed include:

• Your required packaging output is rising
• Manual packaging slows the production line
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• Packaging quality varies between operators
• You need more repeatable packaging results
• 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:

• Maximum production speed
• Product size capacity
• Easy product changeovers
• Printed-film registration using photocells
• Date and batch-code printing
• Automatic feeding integration
• User-friendly controls
• Reliable sealing performance

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 wrapping machine forms a sealed pillow pack from a continuous roll of 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

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 more than 50 years of experience supplying packaging machinery and materials throughout the UK.

Its range includes horizontal and vertical flow wrapping systems for food and non-food products.

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 keep equipment operating consistently.

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.

Are Flow Wrappers Used for Food Packaging?

Yes. Flow wrapping is widely used for biscuits, cakes, sweets, snack products and produce. It provides a hygienic sealed pack.

Are Flow Wrappers Suitable for Non-Food Items?

Yes. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for medical items, pharmaceuticals, small components, personal care goods and household products.

How Many Products Can a Flow Wrapper Package?

Operating speed depends on the machine and the product being packaged. Many high-performance machines can package thousands of individual items each hour.