A flow wrapper 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 production lines that require fast and consistent packaging.How Do Flow Wrapping Machines Work?Automatic flow wrapping equipment uses a continuous roll of flexible film to wrap products at a steady production rate.1. Automatic Product FeedingA conveyor or connected feeding system automatically moves products into the machine.2. Packaging Film PositioningAs the item travels forward, the machine forms the flexible film around it.3. Sealing Along the PackA longitudinal seal joins the film beneath or above the product, forming a continuous tube.4. Cross Sealing and CuttingCross seals are formed at each end before the package is cut from the continuous film.5. The Completed Pillow PackOnce sealed and cut, the finished pack moves out of the machine ready for handling, delivery or sale.What Are the Benefits of Flow Wrapping Machines?Flow 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 maintain a uniform brand appearance.Reduced Labour CostsAutomation reduces the amount of manual handling needed during packaging. Staff can therefore focus on other production tasks.Product ProtectionFlow wrapping helps protect products from dust, moisture, contamination and physical damage during storage and transport.Adaptable Product HandlingThe equipment can be configured for varied product formats and packaging materials.Common Flow Wrapping ApplicationsA flow wrapper is suitable for a wide selection of food and manufactured goods.Common examples include: Individual or grouped biscuits Bakery products Chocolate and confectionery Fresh produce Selected frozen products Medical devices Pharmaceutical goods Personal care products Domestic and consumer products Hardware components Because it can package both food and non-food goods, flow wrapping is widely used across manufacturing industries.Flow Wrapping Film OptionsDifferent film materials can be used according to the packaging requirements.Common materials include: BOPP film Polyolefin packaging film Polyethylene film PET film The most suitable film depends on the product, required shelf life, desired presentation and production environment.Should Your Business Move to Automatic Flow Wrapping?Companies often adopt flow wrapping machinery when hand packaging can no longer keep pace with demand.A flow wrapping machine may be suitable if: Production volumes continue to increase more info 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 A suitable flow wrapper can raise output and produce more uniform packaging.How Do You Choose a Flow Wrapping Machine?Several 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 Automatic feeding integration User-friendly 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.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.Flow Wrapping Machine IntegrationYes. 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 add automated packaging without making major changes to the full production line.Flow Wrapping Machinery from KempnerKempner UK has supplied packaging machines and materials across the UK for over five decades.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.The company offers installation, start-up support, servicing and continued technical help. 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 provide protection during handling, distribution and display.Is Flow Wrapping Suitable for Food Products?Yes. Flow wrapping is widely used for biscuits, cakes, sweets, snack products and produce. It provides closed packaging that supports hygienic handling.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 wrap several thousand products per hour.