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 MachineA 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 PackThe film is sealed along its length to create a continuous tube around the product.4. Cross Sealing and CuttingCross seals are formed at each end before the package is cut from the continuous film.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 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.A Protective Film BarrierFlow wrapping helps protect products from dust, moisture, contamination and physical damage during distribution and storage.Packaging for Different ProductsCurrent 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 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.Available film options include: BOPP film Polyolefin packaging film Polyethylene (PE) PET 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.You may benefit from upgrading when: Production volumes continue to increase flow wrapping machinery Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck 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?Machine selection requires an assessment of pack format, output and future demand.Useful machine features include: Maximum production speed Supported product dimensions Fast and straightforward changeovers Photocell registration for printed films Integrated date or batch coding Compatibility with automatic feeding systems Clear operator controls Reliable sealing performance Your product range, packaging volume and projected demand should guide the final machine specification.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.A shrink wrap machine surrounds the product with shrink film before applying heat to tighten the material.The right method depends on the required appearance, product type and handling conditions after packaging.Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Be Added to an Existing Production Line?In 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.Available options include photocell registration, date or batch coding and machine configurations for specific production needs.Support services include machine installation, commissioning, maintenance and technical assistance. These services can help businesses support dependable long-term production.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat Is the Purpose of Flow Wrapping Machinery?A flow wrapping machine packages individual products in flexible film to form sealed pillow packs. These packs can provide protection during handling, distribution and display.Are Flow Wrappers Used for Food Packaging?Yes. Flow wrapping is widely used for biscuits, cakes, sweets, snack products and 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.