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.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. 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.What Are the Benefits of Flow Wrapping Machines?Flow wrapping equipment can help manufacturers improve output and produce consistent packs.Increased Production RatesAutomatic systems can package thousands of products per hour, depending on the product and machine specification.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.Product ProtectionThe sealed film can shield products against dirt, moisture, contamination and handling damage during storage and transport.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 Chocolate and confectionery Fruit and vegetables Frozen foods Medical products and 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.Available film options include: BOPP film Polyolefin film Polyethylene (PE) PET film The correct material will be determined by the product type, storage period, presentation requirements and production setting.When Is It Time to Use Flow Wrapping Machinery?Many businesses move to automatic flow wrapping when manual packaging begins to restrict production.Signs that an upgrade may be needed include: Your required packaging output is rising Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck Packaging quality varies between operators You need more repeatable packaging results Manual packaging is becoming more expensive Automatic packaging can improve productivity while maintaining consistent pack quality.How Do You Choose a Flow Wrapping Machine?The correct machine should be chosen according to the product and production requirements.Useful machine features include: Maximum production speed Supported product dimensions more info Fast and straightforward changeovers Photocell registration for printed films 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.What Is the Difference Between Flow Wrapping and Shrink Wrapping?Although both methods use flexible film, the packaging processes are different.A flow wrapper creates a closed pillow-shaped pack using continuous 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 a Flow Wrapper Integrate with Existing Equipment?Yes. Many flow wrapping machines are designed to connect with existing production equipment.Compatible equipment may include automatic feeders, conveyors and labelling systems. This allows manufacturers to add automated packaging without making major changes to the full production line.Flow Wrapping Machinery from KempnerKempner has supplied packaging machines and materials across the UK for over five decades.The available machinery includes horizontal and vertical flow wrappers for food and non-food applications.Machines can be supplied with printed-film registration, optional coding systems and tailored configurations.Kempner also provides installation, commissioning, servicing and ongoing technical support. These services can help businesses keep equipment operating consistently.Questions About Flow Wrapping MachineryWhat 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 bakery goods, confectionery, snacks and fresh produce. It provides secure and hygienic packaging.Can a Flow Wrapper Be Used for Manufactured Goods?Yes, they can. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for a range of healthcare, industrial and consumer products.How Fast Can Flow Wrapping Machines Operate?The production rate varies according to product dimensions and machine specification. Many high-performance machines can produce several thousand sealed packs in an hour.