Flow Wrapping: Basics & Machinery

 


Food items to cosmetics, gadgets, etc., everything needs packaging to become ready for retail. Traditionally, glass, metals, and plastics have been popular packaging materials. However, today's industries demand customization and economical packaging solutions. That's when flexible packaging comes to the rescue. As the name implies, flexible packaging generally includes those materials that are non-rigid. One of the major examples of flexible packaging is flow wrappers. 

What is flow wrapping?

Flow wrapping is a process in which the product moves in a horizontal conveyor belt and is then wrapped in a thin plastic film and sealed at the end by the machine. This setup is also known as the horizontal flow wrapping machine. These packaging films are also called flow wraps since they technically wrap around the products to form a bag/pouch/packet. Flow wrappers have gained significant popularity in food processing and other industries because of the following benefits:

  • Protects the product – Since the flow wrap packs the product closely, it allows minimal movement. Thus, the product inside the packet is not disturbed and stays intact in optimum storage conditions.
  • Fast production – The flow wrapping follows a simple form fill and seal mechanism, which makes the operation smooth and fast. It is ideal for high-volume production.
  • Easy customizability – The flow wrap can be clear, printed, or in a single colour, making them highly customizable.
  • Printability – Flow wrapper machines often come with photocells and print centering, which makes printed packaging easy.
  • Reduced wastage – Flow wrapping typically uses limited material, leaving no long tails and excessive wastage. 

Flow wrapping machine

Horizontal flow wrapping machines are the ultimate life savers in most small to large food processing industries. This machine consists of a conveyor belt, a packaging and sealing machine, and a computer. A typical flow wrapping machine mechanism looks like this:

1.     Firstly, a conveyor belt feeds the product into the flow wrap machine.

2.     Secondly, the product is wrapped with a set material length and width (rectangular or square).

3.     Lastly, the ends are sealed or crimped to create a pouch/packet/pillow and then cut into individual packets.

Nowadays, electronic flow wrap machines have made the function easier by introducing computerized control. It allows you to print the packages simultaneously and offer several other customizations. 

Conclusion

Today, most packets, including chips, biscuits, baked goods, and even non-food products, are packed with flow wrappers. It is reliable, fast, and economical. You can also boost your production by getting a horizontal flow wrap machine from Optima. They offer premium quality packaging machinery at the most affordable rates. Visit their website today to check product specifications and details. 

FAQs

Why are flow wrappers a popular choice these days?

Flow wrappers are generally flexible plastic wrappers that are non-rigid and highly customizable. The flexibility, printability, and cost-effectiveness of flow wrappers make them a popular packaging material.

What types of products can be packed in flow wrapping machines?

Flow wrapping is suitable for wet food, dry food, snacks, vegetables & fruits, meat, bakery, and non-food products.

What are the safety features of the horizontal flow wrapper machine?

Their horizontal flow wrapping machine comes with an emergency stop switch and safety carter with auto-stop.

 

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