Bradman Lake’s FT-iFLEX Flow Wrapper is a new-generation horizontal flow-wrapping machine engineered for precision, agility, sustainability and uptime. Launched at interpack 2026, it is designed for high-mix production environments where manufacturers need to handle multiple SKUs, minimise downtime and respond quickly to upstream production changes.
At the heart of the FT-iFLEX is Rockwell Automation’s small-frame iTRAK® intelligent track technology. This provides zero-pressure product positioning, independent product movement and a variable-pitch infeed that automatically adapts to product length without mechanical adjustment. By removing the pitch restrictions found on conventional flow wrappers, the machine can automatically match product pitch to material length, helping ensure accurate product placement and consistent, high-quality seals.
Flexible production with minimal downtime
The FT-iFLEX has been developed for high-mix manufacturing, with minimal change parts and push-button automatic size change. Variable-pitch technology enables the machine to accommodate multiple SKUs, while increased tolerance to product spacing helps improve overall line efficiency.
Its modular design also supports backwards-compatible modules and a range of end-seal units suited to different packaging materials. Tool-less changeovers, automatic web tracking, reel-to-reel splicing, Soft Jaw protection and no-product/no-bag functionality are all designed to maximise uptime and simplify operation.
The integrated feeder reduces the overall machine footprint, while the open-frame design provides clear access beneath the product line, helping minimise debris accumulation and support stringent hygiene requirements.
Engineered for sustainable packaging
Sustainability has been built into the FT-iFLEX platform. The machine is developed to run recyclable films, with sealing modules specifically engineered for sustainable packaging materials. At interpack, it was demonstrated using a recyclable mono-material OPP film designed for high-speed horizontal form-fill-seal applications.
A shared power architecture between the iTRAK® system and ArmorKinetix distributed servo drives is also designed to improve energy efficiency, while integrated control architecture simplifies fault finding and maintenance.
By combining intelligent motion control, rapid changeovers, recyclable-material capability, compact design and advanced automation, the FT-iFLEX gives confectionery manufacturers a flexible platform for efficient, high-speed and more sustainable flow wrapping.
