My role at Record Packaging Systems Ltd is to ensure that our clients receive outstanding service from initial consultation through to final installation. Operating from our central Manchester office, the most frequent conversation I have with UK plant managers revolves around choosing the correct technology. Specifically, production engineers want to know: should we invest in flow wrappers or tray sealers?
Both are exceptionally capable packaging machines, but they serve distinct commercial and technical purposes. As I consistently advise our customers: selecting the right flow wrapper isn’t just about the machine’s specs; it’s about understanding the intricate needs of the product, the desired presentation, production environment, and long-term operational goals.
Here is a plain-speaking comparison to help you make the right choice for your facility.
The Case for Flow Wrappers
Horizontal flow wrappers are high-speed workhorses. They wrap products by creating a continuous tube of flexible film, sealing it at either end and along the bottom.
- Ideal Applications: They are perfect for solid, individually portioned items. Think bakery products, biscuits, fresh produce, and individual frozen fish portions.
- The Benefits: Flow wrapping machines offer incredible throughput speeds and are highly cost-effective regarding material usage. Modern servo-driven models provide excellent seal integrity, which is vital for extending the shelf life of ambient goods. They are the go-to choice when volume and speed are your primary targets.
The Case for Tray Sealers
Tray sealing machines are designed to hermetically seal pre-formed trays with a flexible lidding film.
- Ideal Applications: This technology is the cornerstone of the fresh food industry. It is the absolute standard for packing ready meals, fresh meat, poultry, and processed seafood.
- The Benefits: If your product requires maximum shelf life extension, tray sealers are unmatched. They allow for gas flushing (MAP) to remove oxygen and prevent spoilage. Furthermore, they offer premium retail presentation. For example, our skin packing technology provides a high-quality “3D” effect that holds products like steak or fish fillets securely in place for perfect vertical display on supermarket shelves. They also guarantee a 100% leak-proof pack, which is a non-negotiable requirement for raw meats and liquids.
Making the Right Choice for Your Line
Choosing between these packaging machines comes down to what you are putting inside them. If you are packing solid goods at high volumes and need a fast, protective wrap, a flow wrapper is highly efficient. If you are dealing with wet goods, ready meals, or highly perishable proteins that demand a rigid tray, leak-proof security, and premium retail display, a tray sealer is the mandatory route.
It is also worth noting that both types of machinery now feature automatic film feed systems and can be engineered to handle fully recyclable materials, keeping your operations in line with strict UK sustainability targets.
Ultimately, a thorough assessment and expert guidance are key to a successful packaging solution. If you are unsure which machine fits your production line, reach out to our team. We will look at your product, your factory floor, and your throughput targets to specify exactly what you need.
