flowwrappers

Flowwrappers, or flow wrapping machines, are packaging devices that enclose products in a continuous film to form individual packages in a single flow of production. The film is wrapped around the product to create a tube, which is sealed along the back edge and then end-sealed and cut to produce finished packages, typically pillow-shaped bags. Flow wrapping is widely used for snack foods, confectionery, bakery items, and other goods that travel well in flexible film.

In operation, a roll of film feeds into a forming section where it is shaped into a tube around the product. A longitudinal seal, usually a fin seal or straight seal, is formed along the back. End seals are created by cross-seal jaws, and a knife or rotary cutter separates the packages from the film web. Modern flow wrappers use servo drives and electronic controls to adjust film tension, sealing temperature, and packaging speed, enabling quick changeovers between products and sizes.

Common film materials include polyolefin-based films, such as polypropylene and polyethylene, often in multilayer laminates that provide barrier properties and printability. Film choice depends on product sensitivity, shelf life requirements, and regulatory considerations. Some applications use gas flushing or vacuum in the seal area to extend freshness, though this is not universal.

Advantages of flow wrapping include high packaging speeds, efficient film usage, suitability for irregular or delicate items, and a compact footprint. Limitations include the initial capital cost, dependence on film availability and consistent product dimensions, and potential waste from trim or multi-pack configurations. Flowwrappers operate across a range of speeds, from tens to hundreds of packs per minute, depending on product size and film characteristics.