Flow Pack machines (HFFS) are increasingly becoming one of the most widely adopted packaging methods.
In recent years, they have gained even greater popularity for packaging various products, ranging from foods to everyday items.
According to Future Market Insight (FMI), the global market for this industry experienced a growth of 2.9% during 2015-2021. It is projected to reach $6.8 billion by 2032, up from $4.8 billion in 2023.
Specifically, Flow Pack packaging machines are categorized under single-serving packaging. Single portion packs are particularly favored for their ability to extend the shelf life of products over an extended period.
But what exactly is a Flow Pack, and what benefits do Flow Packs offer?
In this guide, we will delve into a detailed analysis and explanation.
Flow pack machines get their name from their packaging technology.
In fact, the materials to be packed are lined up and ‘flow’ one by one on a belt to be heat-sealed by a film: they are wrapped entirely and finally sealed by a welding bar.
The resulting bag closely resembles those produced by vertical packaging machines (VFFS).
This technique involves a continuous production process where rollers and reels move, fill, weld, and cut plastic film, performing four activities seamlessly in one process.
The bag can be sealed in various ways, including lateral and/or longitudinal sealings, with or without a modified atmosphere (MAP).
MAP packaging helps extend the shelf life of the product by shielding it from dust and atmospheric elements, preserving its integrity, quality, and freshness.
Packaging rates are notably high. Apart from being secure, the packaging is aesthetically pleasing, making it an ideal solution for products on display.
Flow pack packaging machines (HFFS) are increasingly favored for their speed and precision in the packaging process.
Horizontal Flow Pack packaging is a subset of horizontal packaging, resulting in a pillow-shaped bag.
A tab may be positioned near the longitudinal seal. Each package entails the creation of three seals and one fold.
The horizontal Flow Pack packaging machine is especially well-suited for medium to large-scale productions.
Flow wrapping within horizontal packaging lines will consequently yield a cushion-shaped packaging. In the proximity of the seal, a tab is incorporated longitudinally along the sides of the film. Each pack necessitates the formation of three seals and one fold.
Various types of films can be utilized, ranging from thick to thin, compostable to recyclable. Specifically, polypropylene and polyethylene are commonly employed.
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) belongs to the polyester family and is a thermoplastic resin frequently used for liquid and food containers.
Polyethylene (PE) stands out as the most widely utilized plastic today, finding applications in plastic packaging among other uses. Its popularity is attributed to its lightweight nature, non-toxic properties, and exceptional durability.
Flow Pack packaging finds widespread use across various sectors, owing to its versatility and popularity. Some key application areas include:
1. Food Sector: Used for packaging chocolate bars, snacks, meats, baked goods, dried fruit, cold cuts, and various other food items.
2. Pharmaceutical and Cosmetics Sector: Employed for packaging masks, lotions, creams, and general body care products.
3. Industrial Sector: Utilized for packaging small electronic and mechanical parts.
4. Miscellaneous Small Objects: Suitable for packaging various small objects.
Particularly prevalent in the food industry, Flow Pack packaging is extensively used for typical products such as snacks, bars, bakery items, dried fruits, and chocolate, among other food products. For instance, mini Flow Packs for over-the-counter products have gained significant popularity.
Flow Packs offer numerous advantages compared to other packaging methods:
1. Versatility: Demonstrated across various fields and contexts, encompassing practicality, aesthetics, economic considerations, sustainability, and formatting.
2. Production Rate: Flow Pack packaging machines ensure high efficiency and rapid production, reducing packing time and automating the packaging process.
3. Packaging Safety: Perfectly sealed, Flow Packs act as a barrier against external contamination, providing high insulation and protection. The stainless steel construction, easy to clean and sanitize, meets hygiene and safety standards.
4. Adaptation and Flexibility: Suitable for a wide range of products, showcasing adaptability and flexibility.
5. Resilience: The use of polyethylene and polypropylene films ensures both flexibility and strength.
6. Economical Savings: Flow Pack packaging requires less energy than traditional tools and utilizes fewer packaging materials, offering excellent value for money.
7. Attention to Sustainability and Lower Environmental Impact: Addressing the growing concern for sustainability, Flow Packs allow the use of disposable, recyclable materials, reducing waste. They contribute to lowering the environmental impact of packaging compared to traditional systems like rigid plastic or cardboard boxes.
8. Personalization: Flow Packs allow the incorporation of any graphic element on the film, ensuring not only quality but also aesthetic appeal. Personalization options include single-dose versions and other methods to meet diverse customer preferences and sensitivities.
It therefore represents one of the most reliable and versatile packaging options of the moment.
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