A automatic flow wrapping system is an automated packaging system that encloses products in 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 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 PackThe 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. 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.Fast Packaging OutputAutomatic systems can package thousands of products per hour, depending on the product and machine specification.Consistent Packaging QualityEach product receives the same seal quality and presentation. This can help produce a consistent presentation across a production run.Reduced Labour CostsFlow wrapping machinery limits the need for employees to wrap every product by hand. Staff can therefore be assigned to other duties.Product ProtectionFlow wrapping helps protect products from dust, moisture, contamination and physical 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: Individual or grouped biscuits Bakery products 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 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?The correct flexible film will depend on the item being packed and the conditions it must withstand.Frequently used films include: Biaxially oriented polypropylene film Polyolefin film Polyethylene film Polyethylene terephthalate film Film selection should take account of the item, shelf-life needs, pack appearance and operating conditions.When Should You Invest in a Flow Wrapping Machine?An automatic flow wrapper may become suitable when manual processes start slowing the production line.You may benefit from upgrading when: Production volumes continue to increase Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent Greater consistency is required Labour costs are increasing A suitable flow wrapper can raise output and produce more uniform packaging.Key Flow Wrapper FeaturesSeveral factors should be considered when selecting flow wrapping machinery.Important features include: Packaging speed Product size capacity Easy product changeovers Printed-film registration using photocells website Date and batch-code printing Automatic feeding integration User-friendly controls Consistent and dependable seals The correct choice depends on your products, current production volume and future growth plans.What Is the Difference Between Flow Wrapping and Shrink Wrapping?Flow wrapping and shrink wrapping both involve film, but they form packs in different ways.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.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 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 wraps separate products in flexible packaging film and produces closed pillow-shaped packs. These packs can protect products during storage, transport and retail 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.Can Flow Wrapping Machinery Package Non-Food Products?Yes. 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?Operating speed depends on the machine and the product being packaged. Many high-performance machines can wrap several thousand products per hour.