A packaging machine automates one or more stages of the product packaging process. Different machines are designed to work with specific product types, packaging materials and output levels.
Packaging equipment is used throughout manufacturing because it supports dependable packaging at higher production volumes. Common users include businesses in food production, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, consumer goods, logistics and retail.
Which Packaging Machines Are Available?
Packaging machines are available in several forms, depending on the required process.
Shrink Wrap Machines
Shrink wrap machines place film around a product before heat contracts the material tightly around it.
They are commonly used for food, drinks, retail products and industrial goods.
Flow Wrappers
Flow wrappers form sealed pillow packs around individual products using continuous flexible film.
They are widely used for bakery products, confectionery, fresh produce, medical products and consumer goods.
Vacuum Packing Machines
Vacuum packaging machines remove air from the pack before sealing it. This can preserve suitable products and protect them while stored.
Chamber Packaging Machines
These systems are used for products that require controlled and reliable vacuum packaging.
Carton Sealing and Case Packaging Equipment
These machines seal boxes and cases before products enter storage or shipping.
Many production facilities combine several packaging machines to form one connected packaging line.
How Can Packaging Machines Improve Production?
Packaging machines can support faster, more consistent and less labour-intensive production.
Faster Packaging Output
Packaging machinery can process products at a higher rate than hand packing. This helps businesses increase daily output.
Consistent Packaging
Automated systems apply the same settings to each pack. This produces more reliable packaging across the production run.
Less Manual Handling
Automatic equipment reduces operator involvement in routine packaging tasks. Employees can then focus on other production duties.
Improved Product Protection
A suitable pack helps shield products from dirt, damp conditions, contamination and handling damage during warehousing, handling and delivery.
Lower Packaging Waste
Current machines can regulate packaging materials more accurately. This can reduce avoidable material consumption.
Who Uses Packaging Machinery?
Packaging machines are used across a wide range of industries.
Typical users include:
- Food manufacturing
- Drinks manufacturing
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing
- Medical products
- Cosmetic manufacturing
- Household products
- General manufacturing
- Engineering
- Electronic goods
- Retail and distribution
Machine selection varies according to product shape, size, sensitivity and distribution conditions.
Key Factors When Selecting Packaging Machines
The correct packaging equipment will depend on the products, output targets and available facilities.
Factors to assess include:
- Production volume
- Product size and shape
- Packaging materials
- Space available for installation
- Integration with existing production lines
- Expected increases in output
- Maintenance requirements
- Operator usability
Selecting machinery for current demand and expected growth can reduce the need for early replacement.
When Should You Upgrade Your Packaging Machines?
Companies often replace packaging machinery when current systems become too slow, unreliable or costly.
You may need newer equipment when:
- Growing order volumes
- Slow packaging speeds
- Inconsistent packaging quality
- Increasing manual packing costs
- Repeated breakdowns and stoppages
- Expanding production lines
Newer packaging equipment may increase output and reduce delays.
Packaging Machine Integration
Yes. Current packaging machines can often be linked to systems already in place.
Packaging machines can be connected to conveyors, weighers, fillers, labellers, inspection units and palletisers.
An integrated line allows products to move efficiently through each packaging stage while reducing manual handling.
Why Use Automated Packaging Equipment?
Businesses use automated systems to increase production while maintaining reliable pack quality.
Automation may provide:
- more info
- Increased packaging capacity
- More uniform pack quality
- A more consistent finished appearance
- Lower production costs
- More adaptable packaging processes
- More efficient use of staff and equipment
- Dependable protection during handling and storage
- Repeatable seal performance
For businesses with growing production, automation can provide measurable productivity gains.
How Do You Maintain Packaging Machinery?
Regular maintenance helps packaging machinery operate consistently for longer.
Useful maintenance measures include:
- Regular cleaning
- Routine professional servicing
- Checks on moving components
- Timely replacement of worn parts
- Calibration checks
- Operator training
- Using the recommended servicing programme
Regular checks may prevent avoidable production stoppages.
Packaging Machinery from Kempner
Kempner has supplied packaging machinery and materials to UK businesses for more than 50 years.
Its range includes shrink wrapping machines, flow wrapping machinery, vacuum packaging equipment and complete packaging systems suitable for businesses of many sizes.
Kempner also provides installation, commissioning, servicing and ongoing technical support. These services are intended to keep packaging systems operating consistently.
Packaging Machine FAQs
What Are Packaging Machines Used For?
Packaging machines automate the wrapping, sealing, filling or protection of products before storage, transport or retail sale.
Who Uses Packaging Equipment?
Packaging equipment is used across manufacturing, healthcare, food production, retail and distribution.
Can Packaging Machines Increase Production?
Yes. Automatic packaging machines can increase production speed while maintaining consistent pack quality.
Can Packaging Machines Be Adapted?
In many cases, yes. Manufacturers often provide different machine sizes, layouts and optional features.
How Does a Packaging Line Differ from a Packaging Machine?
A packaging machine is designed to complete one main operation.
A complete line links multiple machines so that products move through several packaging stages.