A flow wrapper 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 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. Product FeedingProducts enter the wrapping section through an automatic conveyor or feeding arrangement.2. The Film Is Formed Around the ProductThe packaging film is shaped around each product as it moves through the machine.3. The Length Seal Is FormedA 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 sealed package exits the machine and can then be stored, distributed or displayed.Advantages of Flow Wrapping MachineryMany manufacturers invest in flow wrapping machinery to increase production efficiency while maintaining packaging quality.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 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.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.What Can Be Packaged Using a Flow Wrapper?A flow wrapper is suitable for a wide selection of food and manufactured goods.Common examples include: Individual or grouped biscuits Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods Chocolate and confectionery Fruit and vegetables Frozen foods Medical devices Pharmaceutical goods Personal care products Domestic and consumer products Small industrial and hardware parts Because it can package both food and non-food goods, flow wrapping is widely used across manufacturing industries.What Films Can a Flow Wrapping Machine Use?Different film materials can be used according to the packaging requirements.Common materials include: BOPP film Polyolefin packaging film Polyethylene film Polyethylene terephthalate film Film selection should take account of the item, shelf-life needs, pack appearance and operating conditions.When Should You Invest in a Flow Wrapping Machine?An automatic flow wrapper may become suitable when manual processes start slowing the production line.Signs that an upgrade may be needed include: Your required packaging output is rising flow wrap machine Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck Packaging quality varies between operators You need more repeatable packaging results Labour costs are increasing Automatic packaging can improve productivity while maintaining consistent pack quality.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 Supported product dimensions Easy product changeovers Printed-film registration using photocells Date and batch-code printing Compatibility with automatic feeding systems Clear operator controls Reliable sealing performance Machine suitability will be determined by the items being packed, required output and expected business growth.Flow Wrapping Versus Shrink WrappingFlow wrapping and shrink wrapping both involve film, but they form packs in different ways.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 IntegrationIn many cases, yes. Flow wrapping machinery can often be integrated with equipment already in use.Integration options commonly include automatic product feeders, conveyors and label applicators. This allows manufacturers to add automated packaging without making major changes to the full production line.Flow Wrapping Machinery from KempnerKempner has more than 50 years of experience supplying packaging machinery and materials throughout the UK.Its range includes horizontal and vertical flow wrapping systems for food and non-food products.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 keep equipment operating consistently.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat 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.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, 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 package thousands of individual items each hour.