Flow Wrapping Machines Explained

A automatic flow wrapping system is an automated packaging system that encloses products in flexible film. The machine forms a seal along the length of the pack and seals at both ends 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?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. The Film Is Formed Around the ProductAs 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. The Pack Is Sealed and SeparatedThe machine creates end seals and then separates each pack from the film web.5. Pack ExitThe 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.High Production SpeedsDepending on the machine model and product dimensions, a flow wrapper may package several thousand items each hour.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.Common Flow Wrapping ApplicationsThe process can package products from several different sectors.Products frequently packaged in this way include: Biscuits Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery Fresh produce Selected frozen products Medical devices Pharmaceutical products Cosmetics and personal care items 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?A flow wrapping machine can use several flexible packaging films depending on the product and application.Common materials include: Biaxially oriented polypropylene 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?An automatic flow wrapper may become suitable when manual processes start slowing the production line.Signs that an upgrade may be needed include: Production volumes continue to increase Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent You need more repeatable packaging results Labour costs are increasing Automation may provide steadier production without reducing packaging consistency.How Do You Choose a Flow Wrapping Machine?Several factors should be considered when selecting flow wrapping machinery.Specifications to review include: Maximum production speed website 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 Your product range, packaging volume and projected demand should guide the final machine specification.What Is the Difference Between Flow Wrapping and Shrink Wrapping?Both 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.Businesses should consider presentation, product characteristics and post-production handling when selecting a system.Flow Wrapping Machine IntegrationYes. 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.Flow Wrapping Machinery from KempnerKempner has supplied packaging machines and materials across the UK for over five decades.Kempner supplies both horizontal and vertical machines that can be configured for different product types.Machines can be supplied with printed-film registration, optional coding systems and tailored configurations.Support services include machine installation, commissioning, maintenance and technical assistance. These services can help businesses maintain reliable packaging performance.Questions About Flow Wrapping MachineryWhat Does a Flow Wrapper Package?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.Are Flow Wrappers Used for Food Packaging?Yes, they are. Flow wrapping is widely used for biscuits, cakes, sweets, snack products and produce. It provides closed packaging that supports hygienic handling.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.How Many Products Can a Flow Wrapper Package?The production rate varies according to product dimensions and machine specification. Many high-performance machines can wrap several thousand products per hour.

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