A flow wrapping machine is an automated packaging system that surrounds products with a continuous flexible film. The machine forms a seal along the length of the pack and seals at both ends to create a closed package.The completed package is often called a pillow pack because of its shape.Rather than relying on repeated manual wrapping, flow wrapping machinery supports a continuous packaging process. This makes the equipment suitable for businesses that need to package large quantities efficiently.What Is the Flow Wrapping Process?Flow wrapping machinery uses a continuous roll of flexible film to produce repeatable sealed packs.1. Automatic 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 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. The Completed Pillow PackThe 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 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 storage and transport.Flexible Packaging OptionsCurrent flow wrapping systems can handle a broad selection of product dimensions, shapes and film types.Which Products Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package?A flow wrapper is suitable for a wide selection of food and manufactured goods.Common examples include: Biscuits Cakes, bread products and other bakery goods Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery Fresh produce Selected frozen products Medical devices Pharmaceutical goods 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.Flow Wrapping Film OptionsDifferent film materials can be used according to the packaging requirements.Common materials include: flow wrap machine Biaxially oriented polypropylene film Polyolefin film Polyethylene (PE) Polyethylene terephthalate 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 Manual packaging slows the production line 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?Machine selection requires an assessment of pack format, output and future demand.Important features include: Packaging speed Product size capacity Easy product changeovers Printed-film registration using photocells Date and batch-code printing Automatic feeding integration User-friendly controls Reliable sealing performance Machine suitability will be determined by the items being packed, required output and expected business growth.Flow Wrapping Versus Shrink WrappingBoth systems package products in flexible material, although their operating methods differ.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 choice will depend on the desired pack format, the product and how it will be stored or transported.Can a Flow Wrapper Integrate with Existing Equipment?In many cases, yes. Current flow wrappers may be installed as part of an established production system.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 UK 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 Is a Flow Wrapping Machine Used For?A flow wrapping machine creates sealed film packs around individual items. 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.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 produce several thousand sealed packs in an hour.