A flow wrapping machine is an automated packaging system that surrounds products with a continuous 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 wrap products at a steady production rate.1. 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 machine seals the film lengthways so that it surrounds the product in a tube.4. End Sealing and CuttingEnd-sealing jaws close the package before cutting it into an individual pack.5. Pack ExitThe sealed package exits the machine and can then be stored, distributed or displayed.Advantages of Flow Wrapping MachineryMany manufacturers invest in flow wrapping machinery to increase production efficiency while maintaining packaging quality.High Production SpeedsFlow wrapping machinery can process thousands of products every hour when the equipment and application allow.Uniform Seals and AppearanceProducts pass through the same controlled sealing process. This can help keep retail packs neat and recognisable.Lower Operator RequirementsAutomation reduces the amount of manual handling needed during packaging. Staff can therefore focus on other production tasks.A Protective Film BarrierFlow wrapping helps protect products from dust, moisture, contamination and physical damage during distribution and storage.Adaptable Product HandlingThe equipment can be configured for varied product formats and packaging materials.What Can Be Packaged Using a Flow Wrapper?Flow wrapping machinery can be used for many food and non-food products.Common examples include: Individual or grouped biscuits Bakery products Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery Fresh produce Frozen foods Medical products and devices Pharmaceutical products Cosmetics and personal care items Domestic and consumer products Hardware components Flow wrapping is used throughout many industries because it can handle both edible products and manufactured items.Flow Wrapping Film OptionsThe correct flexible film will depend on the item being packed and the conditions it must withstand.Available film options include: BOPP film Polyolefin packaging film Polyethylene film 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?Companies often adopt flow wrapping machinery when hand packaging can no longer keep pace with demand.You may benefit from upgrading when: Production volumes continue to increase Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck click here Packaging quality varies between operators Greater consistency is required Manual packaging is becoming more expensive Automatic packaging can improve productivity while maintaining consistent pack quality.What Features Should You Look for in Flow Wrapping Machinery?The correct machine should be chosen according to the product and production requirements.Important features include: Maximum production speed Supported product dimensions Easy product changeovers Printed-film registration using photocells Integrated date or batch coding Automatic feeding integration Clear operator controls Reliable sealing performance Your product range, packaging volume and projected demand should guide the final machine specification.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.Shrink wrapping places film around the item and then uses heat to contract it closely around the outside.The choice will depend on the desired pack format, the product and how it will be stored or transported.Flow Wrapping Machine IntegrationIn many cases, yes. Many flow wrapping machines are designed to connect with existing production equipment.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.Kempner Flow Wrapping SystemsKempner UK has supplied packaging machines and materials across the UK for over five decades.Its range includes horizontal and vertical flow wrapping systems for food and non-food products.Systems may include printed-film controls, coding equipment and layouts adapted to individual applications.Kempner also provides installation, commissioning, servicing and ongoing technical support. These services can help businesses support dependable long-term production.Questions About Flow Wrapping MachineryWhat Does a Flow Wrapper Package?A flow wrapping machine packages individual products in flexible film to form sealed pillow packs. These packs can provide protection during handling, distribution and display.Can Food Be Packaged with a Flow Wrapper?Yes. Flow wrapping is widely used for many bakery, confectionery, snack and fresh-food applications. It provides secure and hygienic packaging.Are Flow Wrappers Suitable for Non-Food Items?Yes. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for medical items, pharmaceuticals, small components, personal care goods and household products.How Fast Can Flow Wrapping Machines Operate?The production rate varies according to product dimensions and machine specification. Many high-performance machines can wrap several thousand products per hour.