A flow wrapping machine is an automated packaging system that wraps individual products in flexible packaging film. The machine forms a seal along the length of the pack and seals at both ends 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 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. 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 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 sealed package exits the machine and can then be stored, distributed or displayed.Why Use a Flow Wrapping Machine?Many manufacturers invest in flow wrapping machinery to increase production efficiency while maintaining packaging quality.Fast Packaging OutputFlow wrapping machinery can process thousands of products every hour when the equipment and application allow.Consistent Packaging QualityThe machine applies consistent seals and pack formatting to every item. 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 BarrierA closed flow-wrapped pack provides protection from dust, damp conditions, contamination and physical contact during warehousing, handling and delivery.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?A flow wrapper is suitable for a wide selection of food and manufactured goods.Common examples include: Individual or grouped biscuits Bakery products Chocolate and confectionery Fruit and vegetables Frozen foods Medical devices Pharmaceutical goods Personal care products Domestic and consumer products Hardware components Its suitability for food and non-food applications makes flow wrapping a common packaging method in manufacturing.Which Packaging Films Work with Flow Wrappers?Different film materials can be used according to the packaging requirements.Common materials include: Biaxially oriented polypropylene film Polyolefin film Polyethylene (PE) 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 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.Key Flow Wrapper FeaturesMachine selection requires an assessment of pack format, output and future demand.Important features include: Packaging speed Product size capacity flow wrapping machine Easy product changeovers Printed-film registration using photocells Integrated date or batch coding 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.What Is the Difference Between Flow Wrapping and Shrink Wrapping?Flow 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.Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Be Added to an Existing Production Line?In many cases, yes. Many flow wrapping machines are designed to connect with existing production equipment.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 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 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 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 bakery goods, confectionery, snacks and fresh produce. It provides a hygienic sealed pack.Are Flow Wrappers Suitable for Non-Food Items?Yes, they can. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for medical items, pharmaceuticals, small components, personal care goods and household products.How Many Products Can a Flow Wrapper Package?The production rate varies according to product dimensions and machine specification. Many high-performance machines can package thousands of individual items each hour.