What happens during the cremation process?

The container encasing the human remains is placed in the cremation chamber, where the temperature is raised to approximately 1,400 degrees to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit. After approximately 2 to 2 1/2 hours, almost all of the organic matter is consumed by heat or evaporation. The remaining bone fragments are known as cremated remains. The cremated remains are then carefully removed from the cremation chamber. Any metal is removed with a magnet and later disposed of in an approved manner. The cremated remains are then processed into fine particles and are placed in a temporary container provided by the crematory or placed in an urn purchased by the family. The entire process takes approximately three hours. Throughout the cremation process, a carefully controlled labeling system ensures correct identification. A temporary urn is normally provided with cremations. A permanent urn can be purchased at the funeral home or cemetery depending on final disposition chosen.

How hot does the cremation chamber get?

The optimum temperature range is 1,400 degrees to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit for the cremation chamber. This varies with different cremation units.

How long does it take to cremate a body?

Cremating at the optimum temperature (1,400-1,800 degrees), the average weighted remains takes 2 to 2 1/2 hours. Several more hours may be required before the cremated remains are available to the family. The cremated remains are usually cooled before the cremains are processed. Providers may charge extra for human remains that are excessive.

Are cremations done individually?

Yes – state laws generally provide that only one body may be cremated at a time. However, in some states, the remains of family members may be cremated together with the consent of the next-of-kin. Please note that cremating more than one remains at a time, even with family consent, is rarely done. Infants and small children, when cremated, are usually cremated in small individual containers.

Is the body exposed to an open flame during the cremation process?

Yes – the body is exposed to direct heat and flame. Cremation is performed by placing the deceased in a cremation container (fiberboard container with wooden bottom), and then placing the container into a cremation chamber or retort, where the remains are subjected to intense heat. Larger bodies are often cremated in a more rigid container, having more wood than fiberboard, and this may increase the cost on a rare occasion if the deceased was a very large individual.

When after death can a cremation take place?

Because cremation is an irreversible process and because the process itself will eliminate any ability to determine exact cause of death, many states require that each cremation be authorized by the coroner or medical examiner. Some states have specific minimum time limits that must elapse before cremation may take place.

Are any other preparations required prior to cremation?

It is essential that pacemakers and other medical devices be removed prior to cremation. Pacemakers, or more correctly the batteries in them, may explode when subjected to high temperature, which can be hazardous to crematory staff and equipment. In addition, any special mementos, such as jewelry, will be destroyed during the cremation process. Anything you wish to keep should be removed by the funeral provider before the casket or container is transferred to the crematory. Special mementos can be added to the cremation container, within reason. A letter or a small drawing done by a grandchild comes to mind. In addition, a funeral provider can often clip a lock of hair before the deceased is cremated. This lock of hair can be placed with the cremation urn or kept in a separate place from the cremated remains.

Is it true that the bones are crushed after cremation?

A complete cremation is a two-step process. First, the actual exposure of the deceased to several hours of intense heat – after which the remains are mostly ash except for certain bone fragments, then the entire remaining ash and fragment volume is gathered and run through a processor, creating a uniform powder-like texture.

Can I watch the cremation?

Arrangements can usually be made for relatives or representatives of the deceased to witness the cremation. There is often an additional charge for this service.