What happens during cremation?
Cremation is a process in which the deceased is placed in a special cremation chamber (retort) that reduces the body to organic bone fragments through flame, intense heat, and evaporation. When cremation is complete, the cremated remains as well as any non-consumed metal items are swept from the cremation chamber into a cooling receptacle. Bone fragments are further reduced to granulated particles by a special machine. Although cremated remains do not have the appearance or properties of ashes, many people refer to them in this way. Next, all reasonable efforts are made to remove to the extent practical the recoverable remains. They are then placed in a container or urn chosen by the family. Is a casket required for cremation? A casket is not required for cremation, but state requirements vary and may require the deceased to be held in a rigid, non-transparent combustible container, both for the dignity of the deceased as well as the health and safety of crematory operators. Cremation
