How Does a Cremation Work

The loss of a loved one is a painful process and can be filled with a whirlwind of emotions and tasks. Amongst these tasks is the decision of how your loved one is laid to rest - a choice that can significantly affect your grieving process. For many, cremation is a preferred choice - it’s often simpler, can be less expensive and offers more flexibility with memorial services. Yet, many people don’t fully understand the cremation process. In the subsequent article, we will clarify how cremation works and what you can expect from it.

Understanding Cremation

Cremation is a procedure that uses high heat to reduce a bodily remains to basic mineral components, usually resulting in a material that resembles coarse sand. The entire process usually takes about 2-3 hours and involves several stages.

The Pre-Cremation Stage

Before the actual cremation process, some steps are taken. The body is identified, all paperwork and permits obtained, and the body prepared for cremation. Preparation may include removal of certain items like pace-makers, which can explode in high temperatures.

The Cremation Procedure

Next comes the core of the procedure. The body is placed into a cremation chamber, sometimes referred to as a retort, and subjected to temperatures between 1400 to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit. Over a couple of hours, these high temperatures break down the body to bone fragments.

Post-Cremation Process

The remains are then cooled and inspected for metallic remains which are removed. The 'ashes' are actually pulverized bone fragments, which are then further processed into a fine powder. The amount typically weighs between four to six pounds and is given to the family in an urn or chosen container.

How Does a Cremation Work Example:

Consider this scenario. A family has lost their patriarch. John was a noble man who loved and lived largely for his family. He had expressed his wish to be cremated and have his ashes scattered in his favourite winter vineyard. Once John had peacefully passed away in his sleep, the family contacted a funeral home who took care of the required paperwork and permits. John's body was respectfully prepared and the cremation process initiated. In a matter of hours, his remains were prepared and placed in a beautifully crafted wooden urn as per his family’s choice. A few days later, his family gathered in the winter vineyard to commemorate him and fulfill his last wish, scattering his ashes amongst the snow-laden grapevines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cremation?

Cremation is a method of final disposition of a dead body through burning. It is an alternative to traditional burial or entombment, involving the incineration of the body at high temperatures in a specialized furnace known as a crematorium or crematory.

How long does the cremation process take?

The actual process of cremating a body typically takes between 1.5 to 3 hours, but the entire cremation process, including preparation and processing of ashes, can take around 3 to 7 hours in total.

What temperatures are used in cremation?

Crematoriums usually operate at temperatures ranging from 1400 to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure complete incineration of the body.

Is a casket necessary for cremation?

A casket is not required for cremation. However, most facilities do require the body to be placed in a combustible, rigid container for dignified handling and the cremation process.

Can families be present during the cremation?

Many cremation facilities allow families to be present during the start of the cremation process. This typically includes witnessing the body being placed into the cremation chamber. Each facility may have its own policies regarding attendance, so it is important to ask in advance.

What happens to metal implants during cremation?

Metal implants, such as hip replacements or dental fillings, do not burn away during cremation. They are typically recovered from the cremation chamber and recycled or disposed of in an ethical manner.

Can personal items be cremated with the body?

While some personal items can be cremated with the body, it is recommended to remove items of sentimental or financial value. Moreover, materials that are hazardous or might damage the cremation equipment (like batteries or large metal objects) should not be included.

Are the remains that are returned to the family actually their loved one’s ashes?

Yes, the remains returned to the family are the cremated remains of their loved one. The remains are carefully processed and handled to ensure that families receive their loved one's ashes.

What are the cremated remains like?

Cremated remains, often referred to as "ashes," have a coarse, sandy texture and vary in color from white to a light gray. They are composed mainly of bone fragments that have been ground down after the cremation process.

How much do the cremated remains weigh?

The weight of cremated remains varies, but on average, they weigh 3-7 pounds for an adult. The weight depends on the size of the individual and the cremation process used.

What can be done with the cremated remains?

Cremated remains can be kept in an urn, scattered, buried in a gravesite, placed in a columbarium, incorporated into jewelry or other keepsakes, or even launched into space. The choice is highly personal and subject to local laws and regulations.

Is embalming required before cremation?

Embalming is not a legal requirement before cremation, though it might be recommended or required by the crematorium if there is a public viewing or if the cremation cannot be performed immediately following death.

Are there environmental concerns associated with cremation?

While cremation is generally considered to be more environmentally friendly than traditional burial, it still has an environmental impact, mainly due to energy consumption and the release of carbon emissions and mercury from dental amalgam. Many crematories are taking steps to reduce their environmental footprint.

Can more than one cremation be performed at once?

Standard practice is to perform only one cremation at a time to maintain the integrity and identity of the remains, though exceptions may exist for the simultaneous cremation of closely related individuals (e.g., a mother and a child) with the explicit consent of the next-of-kin.

How are the remains identified throughout the process?

Crematories follow strict identification procedures, which typically involve tagging the body with an identification number at the time of receipt and verifying this number at various points in the process. The identification is cross-checked before the cremation and with the remains after processing.

Is cremation accepted by all religions?

Cremation is accepted by many religions, but not all. Some faiths, like the Eastern Orthodox Church, Islam, and Orthodox Judaism, traditionally prefer burial, while others, including Hinduism and Buddhism, commonly practice cremation. It is important to consult with a religious leader or the deceased's faith for guidance.

How does one arrange for a cremation?

To arrange for a cremation, you typically need to contact a funeral home or a cremation provider, complete the required paperwork, including a cremation authorization form, and provide details about your wishes for after the cremation.

Can an individual pre-plan their cremation?

Absolutely, many people choose to pre-plan their cremation to ensure their wishes are known and to alleviate the burden on their family members. This often involves pre-payment and arranging the details with a funeral home or cremation service provider.

What sort of container or urn is needed to collect the ashes after cremation?

Ashes can be placed in any container chosen by the family. Options range from simple cardboard or plastic containers to decorative urns made of metal, ceramic, wood, or other materials.

Is witness cremation possible for those wanting to be certain of the process's integrity?

Many crematories offer the option of witness cremation, where family members can observe the body being placed in the cremation chamber. This practice is sometimes chosen for religious reasons or to bring closure to the family.

Are there regulations governing crematoriums and cremation practices?

Yes, crematoriums are subject to state and local regulations, which can include licensing requirements, environmental regulations, and standards for the handling and disposal of human remains. It is important for these facilities to adhere to best practices and legal standards to ensure ethical and safe operations.

We hope that this article has been helpful in explaining the cremation process. Losing a loved one is hard, and it's important to understand all the steps involved in their last rites to make an informed decision. The Eulogy Assistant is here to guide you during this challenging period. If you found this information valuable, please share it to help others. Explore our other guides on how to make this difficult time just a little bit easier.