Cremation services provide a range of choices that can cater to your preferences and values. To better understand the cremation process, here’s a comprehensive guide that explains what cremation is and answers your question, ‘How is cremation done?’ From preparation to final disposition, we’ll cover all of the details you should know.
What Is Cremation?
Cremation is the process by which a deceased body is reduced to ashes through intense heat and flame exposure, followed by the pulverization of the remaining bone fragments.
The collected remains, known as cremated remains or cremains, are typically placed in a container known as an urn. The urn can be made of various materials, such as ceramic, metal, or wood, and can be personalized to reflect the deceased’s personality or interests.
You can choose to keep the urn at home, place it in a columbarium or mausoleum, bury it in a cemetery plot, or scatter the ashes in a location of significance, adhering to local regulations and laws.
How Is Cremation Done?
Cremation has become a popular choice for many families when it comes to the final disposition of their loved ones. Here’s a step-by-step guide that answers the question,
“How is cremation done?” This guide is meant to help you understand the cremation process from start to finish, especially if you have a lot of questions about cremation.
Step 1: Preparation
The funeral home or crematorium gathers and completes all the necessary paperwork required for the cremation. This paperwork includes obtaining the appropriate authorization for the cremation to proceed.
This authorization may come from the deceased’s next of kin, as designated in their legal directives, or from the person legally responsible for making end-of-life decisions on behalf of the deceased if there is no explicit instruction.
This also involves ensuring all legal documentation is in order. This includes verifying the identity of the deceased, confirming any prearranged funeral or cremation plans, and complying with relevant state or local regulations governing the cremation process.
With proper preparation planning for cremation, the funeral home or crematorium ensures that the procedure is carried out in compliance with the law and that the family’s wishes are honored.
Step 2: Placement in the Cremation Chamber
After the necessary preparations have been completed, the funeral home or crematorium provides a suitable container for the deceased. The choice of the container can vary depending on the family’s preferences and the regulations of the specific crematorium. There are typically two options: a traditional casket or an alternative cremation container.
Traditional Casket
If a traditional casket is chosen, ensure that it is made of combustible materials that will allow for complete cremation. In some cases, the family may opt to rent a casket or use a combustible insert within a more decorative casket for the viewing or funeral service before transferring the deceased to the cremation container.
Alternative Casket
If an alternative cremation container is preferred, it is usually made of materials such as cardboard, fiberboard, or pressed wood. These materials are designed to facilitate the efficient and thorough cremation process.
Transfer Process
Once the deceased is placed in the selected cremation container, great care is taken to ensure their dignified transfer to the cremation chamber. The container, with the deceased inside, is typically moved using specialized equipment or vehicles to maintain the utmost respect and delicacy during the process.
Upon arrival in the cremation chamber, the cremation container is carefully positioned. The chamber is engineered to withstand and contain the high heat produced during the cremation process. The container, with the deceased inside, is then safely placed within the chamber, ready for the next steps of the cremation process.
Step 3: Temperature and Incineration
Once the deceased has been placed in the cremation chamber, the chamber is heated to temperatures ranging from 1,400 to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit (760 to 980 degrees Celsius). These extreme temperatures are necessary to achieve the complete breakdown of the body and facilitate the cremation process.
The duration of the cremation process typically ranges from 1.5 to 2 hours, although this can vary depending on factors such as the size and weight of the deceased. During this time, the intense heat gradually incinerates the body, leaving only bone fragments behind.
The high temperatures cause the body to undergo a process called pyrolysis, in which the organic materials are chemically broken down and vaporized. These materials include skin, muscle tissue, organs, and any remaining soft tissues. As the body is incinerated, it gradually transforms into bone fragments.
At the end of this stage, the body has been completely reduced to bone fragments, also known as “cremated remains” or “cremains.” These bone fragments are usually a white or grayish color and resemble coarse sand or small pebbles.
The length of time and high temperature achieved ensure the thorough and complete breakdown of the body, leaving behind only the incombustible bone remnants. This process allows for the safe and respectful handling of the cremains.
Step 4: Cooling Down
Once the incineration process is finished, the cremains are left in the cremation chamber to gradually cool down. The cooling down period may last several hours, depending on the size of the cremation chamber and the temperature reached during the incineration process.
Allowing the cremains to cool down is necessary to ensure the safety of funeral home staff and crematory operators when handling the remains. The high temperatures used during the incineration process can cause the cremains to remain extremely hot for a significant period of time, and touching or handling them prematurely can result in burns or other injuries.
During the cooling down period, the cremains transition from being at an extremely high temperature to a more manageable and safe temperature for processing. Once the cremains have cooled to a safe level, they can be safely collected and processed according to the family’s wishes.
After cooling down, the cremains are typically transferred to a special container, such as an urn, which will be given to the family or held by the funeral home until final disposition arrangements are made.
Step 5: Processing and Collection
During the processing stage, special care is taken to remove any remaining metal or materials from the cremains. This includes items such as surgical implants, prosthetics, or other objects that may have been inserted into the body before or during the deceased’s life. The use of powerful magnets and specialized tools helps to separate and remove these items from the cremains.
The processing stage ensures that the collected cremains are pure and free of any non-human elements. This step is important for maintaining the integrity and purity of the remains as well as aligning with regulations and standards in the funeral industry.
Once the processing is complete, the cremains are carefully collected and placed into a chosen container. The most common choice is an urn, which can be personalized and reflect the deceased’s personality, interests, or aesthetics. Urns come in a wide variety of styles, materials, and sizes, allowing families to select one that suits their preferences.
Alternative containers, such as biodegradable bags or boxes, are available for those who plan to scatter the cremains or choose a more natural method of final disposition.
The collection and placement of the cremains in a chosen container mark the conclusion of the cremation process. The container is typically given to the family, who can then decide on the appropriate final resting place or further memorialization options.
Step 6: Final Disposition
The last stage of the cremation process involves the final disposition of the cremains, which refers to the decision on how to honor the memory of the deceased. There are several options available, and the choice is highly personal and can be tailored to reflect the wishes and beliefs of the family.
When deciding on final disposition, consider local regulations and laws. Some locations may have specific requirements or restrictions regarding the scattering of ashes or the placement of urns.
Cemetery Plot
One option for final disposition is burying the urn containing the cremains in a cemetery plot. This allows for a traditional burial similar to that of a casket. Families can choose a specific cemetery and plot and may also opt for a headstone or other memorial marker to mark the location. Burying the urn in a cemetery provides a dedicated space for loved ones to visit and remember the deceased.
Urn in a Columbarium
Another option is placing the urn in a niche in a columbarium. A columbarium is a structure specifically designed for the storage and display of urns. The niche can be personalized with engravings, plaques, or other memorial elements. Columbariums are often located within cemeteries or mausoleums, providing a serene and dignified setting for the urn.
Scattering
Scattering the ashes is a popular choice for many families. This can be done in a meaningful location that holds significance for the deceased or the family. Scattering can take place in a natural setting, such as a favorite park or beach, or by local regulations, such as designated scattering gardens. Some choose to hold a small ceremony or ritual during the scattering, allowing for a meaningful and personalized farewell.
Urn at Home
A growing trend is keeping the urn at home. Families may choose to display the urn in a prominent location within the home, such as a mantle or a dedicated memorial shelf. Keeping the urn at home allows for a constant and comforting presence of the deceased. It also provides flexibility for families to relocate or share the urn with other loved ones.
Consider Cremation Services for a Loved One
Cremation is a process that involves the transformation of a deceased person’s body through high temperatures and incineration. However, you may be unaware of the details of the cremation process. Getting answers to the question, “How is cremation done?” is important. From preparation to final disposition, understanding how the process works allows you and your family to make informed decisions and find closure in your grieving process.
Ashes to Ashes Cremation offers affordable cremation services in Texas. Make cremation arrangements with us today.
