What Does a Flow Wrapping Machine Do?
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 finished format is usually described 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 package products quickly and consistently.1. Automatic Product FeedingProducts enter the wrapping section through an automatic conveyor or feeding arrangement.2. Film FormingAs the item travels forward, the machine forms the flexible film around it.3. Longitudinal SealingThe machine seals the film lengthways so that it surrounds the product in a tube.4. Cross Sealing and CuttingCross seals are formed at each end before the package is cut from the continuous film.5. Finished ProductThe 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.Fast Packaging OutputAutomatic systems can package thousands of products per hour, depending on the product and machine specification.Repeatable Pack PresentationProducts pass through the same controlled sealing process. This can help keep retail packs neat and recognisable.Lower Operator RequirementsAn automated system reduces hands-on work throughout the wrapping process. Staff can therefore spend less time on repetitive packaging work.A Protective Film BarrierFlow wrapping helps protect products from dust, moisture, contamination and physical damage during distribution and storage.Adaptable Product HandlingThe equipment can be configured for varied product formats and packaging materials.Which Products Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package?The process can package products from several different sectors.Typical applications include: Individual or grouped biscuits Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery Fresh produce Selected frozen products Medical products and 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.Flow Wrapping Film OptionsA flow wrapping machine can use several flexible packaging films depending on the product and application.Available film options 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.When Is It Time to Use Flow Wrapping Machinery?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 Manual packaging slows the production line Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent get more info You need more repeatable packaging results Labour costs are increasing A suitable flow wrapper can raise output and produce more uniform packaging.Key Flow Wrapper FeaturesMachine selection requires an assessment of pack format, output and future demand.Specifications to review 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 Machine suitability will be determined by the items being packed, required output and expected business growth.Flow Wrapping Versus Shrink WrappingBoth systems package products in flexible material, although their operating methods differ.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.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. 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.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.The company offers installation, start-up support, servicing and continued technical help. These services can help businesses maintain reliable packaging performance.Questions About Flow Wrapping MachineryWhat Is a Flow Wrapping Machine Used For?A flow wrapping machine creates sealed film packs around individual items. 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 many bakery, confectionery, snack and fresh-food applications. It provides secure and hygienic packaging.Can a Flow Wrapper Be Used for Manufactured Goods?Yes. 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 package thousands of individual items each hour.