Definition
A dome production (also composite production) occurs when the production of a (main) product unavoidably results in at least one other (secondary) product due to the technology.
A distinction is made between two types of co-production:
- Rigid dome production: The manufactured products occur in a fixed relationship to each other that cannot be changed.
- Steerable dome production: By varying the process parameters, it is possible to bring about different quantity ratios.
From an economic point of view, dome products can mean both costs and revenues. If dome products have to be disposed of properly in a chemical company, costs are incurred. Whereas, for example, heat generated by the production process can be used for a company's hot water system.
However, by-products are often sold for further processing. In this way, the total costs of the main products can be relieved by the revenues of the by-products and increase profits. Likewise, they strengthen the market position through a broader product range.