Flow Wrapping Machines Explained

A automatic flow wrapping system 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.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. Automatic Product FeedingA 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 PackA longitudinal seal joins the film beneath or above the product, forming a continuous tube.4. The Pack Is Sealed and SeparatedCross seals are formed at each end before the package is cut from the continuous film.5. The Completed Pillow PackOnce 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.Increased Production RatesAutomatic 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.Product ProtectionThe sealed film can shield products against dirt, moisture, contamination and handling damage during storage and transport.Flexible Packaging OptionsModern machines can package many product sizes and shapes using different flexible films.Common Flow Wrapping ApplicationsThe 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 Household goods Small industrial and hardware parts Flow wrapping is used throughout many industries because it can handle both edible products and manufactured items.Which Packaging Films Work with Flow Wrappers?A flow wrapping machine can use several flexible packaging films depending on the product and application.Available film options include: BOPP 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 Should You Invest in a Flow Wrapping Machine?An automatic flow wrapper may become suitable when manual processes start slowing the production line.Signs that an upgrade may be needed include: Your required packaging output is rising Hand wrapping creates a production bottleneck here Pack appearance or seal quality is inconsistent Greater consistency is required Labour costs are increasing Automation may provide steadier production without reducing packaging consistency.Key Flow Wrapper FeaturesSeveral factors should be considered when selecting flow wrapping machinery.Specifications to review 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 Consistent and dependable seals The correct choice depends on your products, current production volume and future growth plans.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.Businesses should consider presentation, product characteristics and post-production handling when selecting a system.Flow Wrapping Machine IntegrationYes. Flow wrapping machinery can often be integrated with equipment already in use.Compatible equipment may include automatic feeders, conveyors and labelling systems. This allows manufacturers to increase packaging output without rebuilding the entire production process.Kempner Flow Wrapping SystemsKempner 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.Available options include photocell registration, date or batch coding and machine configurations for specific production needs.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 many bakery, confectionery, snack and fresh-food applications. It provides secure and hygienic packaging.Can a Flow Wrapper Be Used for Manufactured Goods?Yes. Manufacturers use flow wrapping machinery for a range of healthcare, industrial and consumer products.How Fast Can Flow Wrapping Machines Operate?The production rate varies according to product dimensions and machine specification. Many high-performance machines can package thousands of individual items each hour.

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