A flow wrapping machine is an automated packaging system that surrounds products with a continuous flexible film. The machine forms long seals and cross seals to create a closed package.The completed package is often called a pillow pack because of its shape.Unlike manual packaging methods, flow wrapping machines are built for continuous production. This makes the equipment suitable for manufacturers processing high volumes of products.What Is the Flow Wrapping Process?A flow wrapping machine uses a continuous roll of flexible film to package products quickly and consistently.1. Products Enter the MachineA conveyor or connected feeding system automatically moves products into the machine.2. Film FormingThe machine guides the film around each product during the packaging process.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 QualityThe machine applies consistent seals and pack formatting to every item. 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 TransportA closed flow-wrapped pack provides protection from dust, damp conditions, contamination and physical contact during warehousing, handling and delivery.Packaging for Different ProductsCurrent flow wrapping systems can handle a broad selection of product dimensions, shapes and film types.Which Products Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package?A flow wrapper is suitable for a wide selection of food and manufactured goods.Common examples include: Individual or grouped biscuits Bakery products Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery Fruit and vegetables Selected frozen products Medical devices Pharmaceutical products Personal care products Domestic and consumer products 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?The correct flexible film will depend on the item being packed and the conditions it must withstand.Frequently used films include: BOPP film Polyolefin packaging film Polyethylene film Polyethylene terephthalate film The correct material will be determined by the product type, storage period, presentation requirements and production setting.When Is It Time to Use Flow Wrapping Machinery?Many businesses move to automatic flow wrapping when manual packaging begins to restrict production.Signs that an upgrade may be needed include: Production volumes continue to increase Manual packaging slows the production line Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent You need more repeatable packaging results 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.Important features include: Packaging speed Product size capacity Easy product changeovers Printed-film registration using photocells Date and batch-code printing check here Automatic feeding integration User-friendly controls Reliable sealing performance Machine suitability will be determined by the items being packed, required output and expected business growth.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.With shrink wrapping, the product is enclosed in film that shrinks when it passes through a heat tunnel.The right method depends on the required appearance, product type and handling conditions after packaging.Flow Wrapping Machine IntegrationIn 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 increase packaging output without rebuilding the entire production process.Kempner Flow Wrapping SystemsKempner has more than 50 years of experience supplying packaging machinery and materials throughout the UK.Kempner supplies both horizontal and vertical machines that can be configured for different product types.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 FAQsWhat 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 a hygienic sealed pack.Are Flow Wrappers Suitable for Non-Food Items?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 produce several thousand sealed packs in an hour.