Cremation is an alternative to traditional burials and involves the process of reducing a body to ashes by exposing it to high temperatures. Cremation has been used for thousands of years in different cultures and is becoming increasingly popular in modern times as a more practical and affordable way to lay a loved one to rest. However, many people are not familiar with what happens during cremation and may be curious about the process. In this article, we will discuss what to expect during cremation services in Westmont, PA, including the steps involved, the equipment used, and the options for handling the ashes.
Preparation of the Body
Before the cremation process can begin, the body must be prepared. This includes removing any jewelry or other items that may not withstand the cremation chamber’s heat. If the deceased has any medical implants, such as pacemakers, these must also be removed as they can pose a danger during cremation. Once the body has been prepared, it is placed in a casket or container made of combustible materials such as wood, cardboard, or bamboo.
Placement in the Cremation Chamber
The casket or container containing the body is then placed in the cremation chamber, also known as a retort. The chamber is made of fire-resistant materials and is designed to withstand high temperatures. The chamber is preheated to a temperature of around 1,400-1,800 degrees Fahrenheit before the casket or container is placed inside.
The Cremation Process
Once the casket or container is inside the cremation chamber, the actual cremation process begins. The chamber is heated to a temperature of around 1,400-1,800 degrees Fahrenheit, and the body is exposed to this heat for a period of several hours. The heat breaks down the body tissues and reduces them to bone fragments, which are then further processed into fine ash using special equipment.
Processing the Ashes
After the cremation process is complete, the bone fragments are removed from the cremation chamber and allowed to cool for a period of several hours. Once they have cooled, they are placed in a special machine called a cremulator, which uses rotating blades to grind the bone fragments into fine ash. The resulting ash is then placed in a container, which is typically made of plastic or cardboard. This container is then given to the family for them to keep.
In some cases, a few bone fragments may be too large to be pulverized by the cremulator. These fragments will be removed from the ashes and returned to the family in a separate container so that they can have closure, knowing that all of their loved ones’ remains are kept safely. The ashes can then be placed in an urn or other type of memorial container, scattered in a meaningful location, or even turned into beautiful pieces of jewelry for the family to keep as a reminder of their loved one’s life and legacy.
Handling the Ashes
Once the ashes have been processed and placed in a container after cremation services in Westmont, PA, they can be handled in several ways. Some families choose to keep the ashes in an urn, which can be displayed in a prominent location in the home or placed in a columbarium. Others may choose to scatter the ashes in a meaningful location, such as a favorite park or beach. There are also options for incorporating the ashes into jewelry, artwork, or other keepsakes.