Flowpack Films — When Barrier Performance, Sealing and Mechanical Strength Work Together
Flowpack packaging may look simple, but the film has to fulfil several demanding tasks at the same time.
It must run reliably at production speed, form secure seals, protect the product throughout distribution and provide the required barrier properties. At the point of sale, appearance and finishing options also influence how the packaged product is perceived.
The right flowpack film is therefore not defined by one property. Its performance depends on how well the complete film structure is matched to the product and packaging process.
The product defines the film
Different products place different demands on their packaging.
Shelf-life targets, sensitivity to oxygen or moisture, product shape, weight and storage conditions all influence the required film structure. A film for a product with sharp edges, for example, may require particularly high puncture and tear resistance.
The development process should therefore begin with the product, not with a standard film specification.
Barrier properties matched to the application
Barrier performance helps protect sensitive products against external influences and supports their intended shelf life.
However, the required barrier level should always be selected according to the actual application. Product characteristics, storage temperature, distribution time and packaging atmosphere must be considered together.
The objective is to provide the necessary protection without introducing unnecessary material complexity.
Why hot tack matters
Flowpack packaging is often produced at high speed. During sealing, the film must create a stable seal even while the sealing area is still warm.
Good hot-tack performance can help maintain seal reliability directly after the sealing process. This supports consistent processing and reduces the risk of seals opening before they have cooled completely.
For packaging users, hot tack is therefore more than a technical value. It can influence production stability, packaging quality and line efficiency.
Protection throughout the supply chain
The packaged product is exposed to mechanical stress during production, transport, storage and handling.
High puncture and tear resistance help the packaging withstand these stresses. This is especially important for products with irregular shapes, corners or edges that could damage a less suitable film.
Mechanical protection must nevertheless be balanced with efficient material use. The aim is not simply to use more material, but to develop a structure that provides the required performance with an appropriate use of resources.
Presentation at the point of sale
Technical performance is only one part of the packaging solution.
Printing and other finishing options can support brand communication, product information and differentiation at the point of sale. Transparency or specifically designed printed surfaces can be selected according to the product and marketing concept.
The film therefore contributes both to product protection and to consumer communication.
Recycling-oriented flowpack structures
Recycling requirements are becoming increasingly important in packaging development.
BUERGOFOL flowpack films are also available with polyolefin structures or as Mono PP variants. These solutions are intended to reduce material complexity while maintaining the mechanical properties required for the application.
Whether a complete package is recyclable depends on its entire structure and on the relevant collection, sorting and recycling infrastructure. Films, printing, adhesives and other components should therefore be considered together from the beginning.
The right questions for development
- What protection does the product require?
- Which barrier properties are necessary?
- Which sealing conditions and production speeds are used?
- How important are puncture and tear resistance?
- Which printing or finishing options are required?
- Can material complexity be reduced?
- How does the complete package fit the intended recycling system?
Answering these questions early helps avoid compromises later in the process.
Reliable performance begins with the complete system
A successful flowpack solution combines product requirements, machine performance, sealing behaviour, mechanical strength and presentation.
BUERGOFOL develops flowpack films tailored to individual products and applications, from barrier and hot-tack performance to high puncture resistance and recycling-oriented polyolefin structures.
Are you reviewing an existing flowpack solution or developing a new packaging concept? Our team will be pleased to discuss your technical requirements.
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