The Cremation Process and the Cremation Container
Cremation uses intense heat to reduce a deceased body to bone fragments and ashes. The body is always placed in a rigid, combustible container for safety and dignity, a practice guided by practical, ethical, and legal requirements. The container is an integral part of the process, not a reusable item.
The Purpose of a Cremation Container
A cremation container ensures dignified handling, provides a hygienic barrier for staff, facilitates safe placement into the cremation chamber, and meets legal requirements in most places.
Types of Cremation Containers and Their Materials
Unlike burial caskets, cremation containers are combustible and designed for efficient incineration. Common materials include cardboard, softwood (like pine), fiberboard, or woven natural materials such as wicker or bamboo for eco-friendly options. For services with viewing, rental caskets may be used with a combustible inner insert for cremation.
The Incineration of the Coffin in the Cremator
The container and body are placed into the cremator chamber, heated to 1,400 to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit. The container helps fuel the cremation of soft tissues. After 1.5 to 3 hours, bone fragments remain. Non-combustible items, like medical implants, are removed, and bone fragments are processed into fine particles, the cremated remains. A metal identification tag ensures proper identification throughout the process.
Cremation Casket vs. Burial Casket
Cremation containers are made of combustible materials with minimal metal, are generally more affordable, designed to be consumed by fire, and often offer more eco-friendly options. Burial caskets can be made of non-combustible materials, are typically more expensive, designed for interment, and may contain materials that don't decompose.
| Feature | Cremation Casket / Container | Burial Casket |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Combustible materials like wood veneer, pine, or sturdy cardboard. Minimal or no metal hardware. | Often made of non-combustible materials like steel, bronze, or copper. Wood options are also common. |
| Price | Generally more affordable due to simpler construction and materials. | Can be significantly more expensive, with price variations based on material and craftsmanship. |
| Function | Designed to be fully consumed by fire during the cremation process. | Designed to be sturdy for transport and presentation before being interred in the ground. |
| Environmental Impact | More eco-friendly options are available, such as biodegradable and recycled materials. | Can contain materials that do not naturally decompose, and require vaults for cemetery interment. |
| Use Case | Used for the cremation itself, often after a viewing service that may utilize a rental casket. | Used for a traditional burial service and interment in a cemetery. |
Environmental Considerations of Cremation Containers
Environmentally conscious choices in cremation include containers made from recycled cardboard or rapidly renewable resources like bamboo or wicker. These biodegradable options align with a desire for a greener final disposition.
Understanding the Final Cremated Remains
The cremated remains are primarily processed bone fragments with some ash from the container. Strict protocols and identification tags ensure the correct remains are returned to the family. The Cremation Association of North America is a valuable resource for details on the process and regulations.
Conclusion: The Truth Behind the Cremation Container
When you get cremated, your coffin (or container) is incinerated with the body. This process is respectful, regulated, and efficient, utilizing a simple, combustible container rather than an elaborate casket. Understanding this helps families make informed decisions during end-of-life planning.
