A flow wrapping machine is an automated packaging system that surrounds products with a continuous 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 Machine

A conveyor or connected feeding system automatically moves products into the machine.

2. Packaging Film Positioning

As the item travels forward, the machine forms the flexible film around it.

3. Sealing Along the Pack

A longitudinal seal joins the film beneath or above the product, forming a continuous tube.

4. The Pack Is Sealed and Separated

The machine creates end seals and then separates each pack from the film web.

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?

Businesses often choose flow wrapping machines when they need faster production and repeatable packaging results.

Increased Production Rates

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

Repeatable Pack Presentation

The machine applies consistent seals and pack formatting to every item. This can help produce a consistent presentation across a production run.

Less Manual Handling

Flow 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 Transport

The sealed film can shield products against dirt, moisture, contamination and handling damage during warehousing, handling and delivery.

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
• Fruit and vegetables
• Frozen foods
• Medical devices
• Pharmaceutical goods
• Personal care products
• Household goods
• Small industrial and hardware parts

Flow wrapping is used throughout many industries because it can handle both edible products and manufactured items.

Which Packaging Films Work with Flow Wrappers?

Different film materials can be used according to the packaging requirements.

Common materials include:

• Biaxially oriented polypropylene film
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• Polyolefin film
• Polyethylene film
• Polyethylene terephthalate film

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

When Should You Invest in a Flow Wrapping Machine?

An automatic flow wrapper may become suitable when manual processes start slowing the production line.

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
• Labour costs are increasing

Automation may provide steadier production without reducing packaging consistency.

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
• Clear operator controls
• Consistent and dependable seals

The correct choice depends on your products, current production volume and future growth plans.

How Do Flow Wrappers Differ from Shrink Wrap Machines?

Flow wrapping and shrink wrapping both involve film, but they form packs in different ways.

Flow wrapping machinery forms film around the product before applying length and end seals.

A shrink wrap machine surrounds the product with shrink film before applying heat to tighten the material.

The choice will depend on the desired pack format, the product and how it will be stored or transported.

Can a Flow Wrapper Integrate with Existing Equipment?

Yes. Current flow wrappers may be installed as part of an established production system.

Integration options commonly include automatic product feeders, conveyors and label applicators. This allows manufacturers to add automated packaging without making major changes to the full production line.

Flow Wrapping Machinery from Kempner

Kempner 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.

Support services include machine installation, commissioning, maintenance and technical assistance. These services can help businesses maintain reliable packaging performance.

Flow Wrapping Machine FAQs

What Is the Purpose of Flow Wrapping Machinery?

A flow wrapping machine wraps separate products in flexible packaging film and produces closed pillow-shaped packs. These packs can protect products during storage, transport and retail display.

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 pharmaceutical products, medical devices, hardware, cosmetics and consumer goods.

What Is the Speed of a Flow Wrapping Machine?

Packaging speed is affected by the equipment model, pack format and item being handled. Many high-performance machines can wrap several thousand products per hour.