A flow wrapping machine 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.Unlike manual packaging methods, flow wrapping machines are built for continuous production. This makes the equipment suitable for production lines that require fast and consistent packaging.What Is the Flow Wrapping Process?A flow wrapping machine uses a continuous roll of flexible film to package products quickly and consistently.1. Automatic Product FeedingA conveyor or connected feeding system automatically moves products into the machine.2. Film FormingThe machine guides the film around each product during the packaging process.3. The Length Seal Is FormedThe film is sealed along its length to create a continuous tube around the product.4. The Pack Is Sealed and SeparatedThe machine creates end seals and then separates each pack from the film web.5. Finished ProductThe completed pillow pack leaves the machine ready for storage, transport or retail display.Why Use a Flow Wrapping Machine?Many 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 QualityThe machine applies consistent seals and pack formatting to every item. This can help keep retail packs neat and recognisable.Lower Operator RequirementsAn automated system reduces hands-on work throughout the wrapping process. Staff can therefore spend less time on repetitive packaging work.Protection During Storage and TransportA 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?The 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 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 film PET film Film selection should take account of the item, shelf-life needs, pack appearance and operating conditions.Should Your Business Move to Automatic Flow Wrapping?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 Manual packaging slows the production line 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.Important features include: Packaging speed Product size capacity Easy product changeovers check here Printed-film registration using photocells Date and batch-code printing Automatic feeding integration User-friendly controls Consistent and dependable seals Machine suitability will be determined by the items being packed, required output and expected business growth.How Do Flow Wrappers Differ from Shrink Wrap Machines?Flow wrapping and shrink wrapping both involve film, but they form packs in different ways.Flow wrapping machinery forms film around the product before applying length and end seals.With shrink wrapping, the product is enclosed in film that shrinks when it passes through a heat tunnel.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.Why Choose Kempner for Flow Wrapping Machines?Kempner 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.Machines can be supplied with printed-film registration, optional coding systems and tailored configurations.The company offers installation, start-up support, servicing and continued technical help. 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.Are Flow Wrappers Used for Food Packaging?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 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 wrap several thousand products per hour.