Process Traceability

Within the Eurosystem, institutions authorised to produce the euro are accredited by the European Central Bank (ECB). As a banknote papermill, EUROPAFI is subject to a set of rules that guarantee a very high level of security for its customers, the national central banks (NCBs). The traceability division ensures that these high standards are maintained within the centre, which is essential in the production of banknotes.
Its main mission is to guarantee customers that no sheets are lost. Throughout the banknote production process, security paper goes through several stages of transformation.

The traceability division monitors each stage, from the receipt of raw materials to the sending of finished products :

Cheking materials on receipt,
Monitoring of comsumption and, more specifically, security features
Cheking that there are no anomalies during production,
Monitoring and archiving of samples,
Monitoring of non-standard items and their destruction,
Monitoring of shipments.

EUROPAFI's staff, who is trained in security issues, uses modern tools to carry out quality controls at every stage. The traceability information system is based on a dedicated Manufacturing Execution System (MES) called MTS. This computer system collects various production data in real time and allows the status and location of a banknote sheet in the papermill to be known at all times.
Lastly, the traceability division provides reports for products that require them or at the clients' request. The application of traceability rules is an integral part of EUROPAFI's expertise, regardless of the type of production: euro or export, always under the control of the European Central Bank.

Banknote production centre

As a specialised centre, EUROPAFI is part of the Eurosystem's strict system for banknote production. Each stage of the banknote production chain is governed by demanding security and quality standards.

Euro banknotes and their traceability

The production of euro banknotes give rise to enhanced controls in order to maintain public confidence. EUROPAFI ensures that each banknote meets the requirements set by the ECB and the NCBs.

Banknote paper and security

Banknote paper is at the heart of banknote production. It must combine mechanical strength, durability and the integration of security features (security features, traceability systems). EUROPAFI implements rigorous processes and quality controls to ensure that each sheet meets the specifications of the central banks.

Traceability process and banknotes

Banknotes are made from special paper that incorporates security features. Each stage of the process is monitored by the traceability department to ensure that no sheets are lost.

Euro banknotes are produced at paper mills and printing works accredited by the European Central Bank. EUROPAFI, in France, is part of this recognised system within the Eurosystem.

The cost depends on the raw materials and the security features incorporated. Although these data are regulated by the authorities, EUROPAFI strives to optimise its traceability processes and quality controls to guarantee performance and security.