A automatic flow wrapping system is an automated packaging system that surrounds products with a continuous flexible film. The machine forms long seals and cross seals 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.How Do Flow Wrapping Machines Work?A flow wrapping machine uses a continuous roll of flexible film to produce repeatable sealed packs.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. Longitudinal SealingA longitudinal seal joins the film beneath or above the product, forming a continuous tube.4. The Pack Is Sealed and SeparatedEnd-sealing jaws close the package before cutting it into an individual pack.5. Pack ExitOnce sealed and cut, the finished pack moves out of the machine ready for handling, delivery or sale.Why Use a Flow Wrapping Machine?Flow wrapping equipment can help manufacturers improve output and produce consistent packs.Fast Packaging OutputDepending on the machine model and product dimensions, a flow wrapper may package several thousand items each hour.Uniform Seals and AppearanceProducts pass through the same controlled sealing process. This can help keep retail packs neat and recognisable.Reduced Labour CostsAutomation reduces the amount of manual handling needed during packaging. Staff can therefore focus on other production tasks.Product ProtectionThe sealed film can shield products against dirt, moisture, contamination and handling 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?Flow wrapping machinery can be used for many food and non-food products.Typical applications include: Individual or grouped biscuits Bakery products Sweets, chocolate bars and confectionery Fresh produce Selected frozen products 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.What Films Can a Flow Wrapping Machine Use?A flow wrapping machine can use several flexible packaging films depending on the product and application.Frequently used films include: Biaxially oriented polypropylene 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 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?Several factors should be considered when selecting flow wrapping machinery.Important features include: Packaging speed Product size capacity Easy product changeovers website Printed-film registration using photocells Date and batch-code printing Automatic feeding integration User-friendly controls Reliable sealing performance Your product range, packaging volume and projected demand should guide the final machine specification.Flow Wrapping Versus Shrink WrappingAlthough both methods use flexible film, the packaging processes are different.A flow wrapper creates a closed pillow-shaped pack using continuous film.With shrink wrapping, the product is enclosed in film that shrinks when it passes through a heat tunnel.Businesses should consider presentation, product characteristics and post-production handling when selecting a system.Flow Wrapping Machine IntegrationIn 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 raise production capacity without replacing every existing system.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.Support services include machine installation, commissioning, maintenance and technical assistance. These services can help businesses keep equipment operating consistently.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat Is the Purpose of Flow Wrapping Machinery?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.Is Flow Wrapping Suitable for Food Products?Yes, they are. Flow wrapping is widely used for many bakery, confectionery, snack and fresh-food applications. It provides closed packaging that supports hygienic handling.Can a Flow Wrapper Be Used for Manufactured Goods?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?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.