A automatic flow wrapping system is an automated packaging system that encloses products in 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 production lines that require fast and consistent packaging.How Do Flow Wrapping Machines Work?Flow wrapping machinery uses a continuous roll of flexible film to produce repeatable sealed packs.1. Products Enter the MachineProducts are carried into the machine by a conveyor or integrated feeding system.2. Packaging Film PositioningThe packaging film is shaped around each product as it moves through the machine.3. The Length Seal Is FormedThe 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. Pack ExitThe sealed package exits the machine and can then be stored, distributed or displayed.Advantages of Flow Wrapping MachineryFlow wrapping equipment can help manufacturers improve output and produce consistent packs.High Production SpeedsDepending on the machine model and product dimensions, a flow wrapper may package several thousand items each hour.Uniform Seals and AppearanceProducts pass through the same controlled sealing process. This can help maintain a uniform brand appearance.Lower Operator RequirementsAutomation reduces the amount of manual handling needed during packaging. 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.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.Typical applications 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?Many businesses move to automatic flow wrapping when manual packaging begins to restrict production.You may benefit from upgrading when: Your required packaging output is rising Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent here 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 FeaturesSeveral 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 Integrated date or batch coding Compatibility with automatic feeding systems Clear operator controls Consistent and dependable seals Your product range, packaging volume and projected demand should guide the final machine specification.Flow Wrapping Versus Shrink WrappingAlthough both methods use flexible film, the packaging processes are different.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 Does a Flow Wrapper Package?A flow wrapping machine creates sealed film packs around individual items. These packs can help shield items while they are stored, delivered or presented for sale.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 Many Products Can a Flow Wrapper Package?Operating speed depends on the machine and the product being packaged. Many high-performance machines can wrap several thousand products per hour.