Understanding the Cremation Process

The cremation process is a deeply personal and often misunderstood aspect of saying goodbye to a loved one. It is becoming an increasingly popular choice for honoring the lives of loved ones in a way that is respectful, dignified, and environmentally conscious. 

At Living Roots, we are dedicated to providing advanced, eco-friendly cremation machines that support communities and local government units in offering efficient and compassionate cremation services. In this article, we will guide you through the entire cremation process, step by step, to help you understand how cremation works and why it might be the right choice for you or your community.

A person holding an urn with the cremated ashes or cremains

What is Cremation?

Cremation is the process of reducing a body to ashes through intense heat. This method has been practiced for centuries in various cultures and has gained widespread acceptance due to its practicality, cost-effectiveness, and environmental benefits. 

"Cremation is not the end but the beginning of remembrance, where ashes nurture the roots of memory."

The Five Basic Steps of Cremation

Identification and Authorization

• Before the cremation process begins, the deceased is properly identified. Reputable crematories follow strict procedures to ensure that they handle your loved one’s remains with care and respect.

• You’ll complete necessary paperwork, granting authorization for the cremation. This form includes details such as who will pick up the remains and the type of container to use.

Body Preparation and Container Placement

• The body is prepared for cremation, and it is placed into a suitable container. Many crematories require a container, such as a cremation-appropriate casket or a rigid cardboard box. This step ensures that the process proceeds smoothly and with dignity.

• Personal items are removed, and the body is placed in a suitable container or casket for cremation.

Moving to the Cremation Chamber

The actual cremation process takes place in a specially designed furnace known as a “retort” or cremation chamber. The retort exposes the body to open flames, intense heat, and evaporation, reducing it to its essential elements. Living Roots uses state-of-the-art cremation machines that incorporate European Indirect Flue Systems, ensuring a smoke-free and odorless process.

• Primary Chamber: The body is placed in the primary chamber where it is exposed to high temperatures, typically between 1,400 to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit. This process usually takes about 45-60 minutes.

• Secondary Chamber: Any remaining particles are processed in the secondary chamber to ensure complete combustion and to filter out pollutants.

Handling the Ashes

• After the cremation is complete, the remains are carefully handled and processed to ensure they are respectfully prepared.

• Cooling and Collection: The ashes are allowed to cool before being collected. Metal remains, such as surgical implants, are removed during this stage.

• Processing: The ashes are further processed to create a fine, uniform consistency. This is done using a special machine that reduces bone fragments into ash. Contrary to popular belief, the resulting remains are primarily bone fragments rather than ashes.

Memorialization

The final step in the cremation process is memorializing the deceased. This can take many forms, depending on the wishes of the family and the deceased.

• Urns and Keepsakes: The ashes can be placed in an urn or turned into keepsakes such as jewelry or decorative pieces. There are various options to suit different tastes and budgets.

• Scattering: Ashes can be scattered in a meaningful location, such as a garden, at sea, or in another place of significance. Legal and environmental considerations should be taken into account.

• Columbariums: Ashes can be stored in a columbarium, a structure designed to house urns in niches. This is a space-efficient and respectful way to memorialize the deceased.

Conclusion

Cremation is an important and sustainable option for honoring the lives of our loved ones. By understanding the cremation process and its benefits, families and communities can make informed decisions that align with their values and needs. 

At Living Roots, we are dedicated to providing advanced, eco-friendly cremation machines that help communities offer dignified and sustainable cremation services.

If you are considering implementing cremation services in your community or upgrading your existing facilities with the latest in cremation technology, please contact Living Roots today. Our team is here to provide the expertise and support you need to create a compassionate and environmentally conscious cremation program.