Cremation is an increasingly popular choice for end-of-life arrangements in Australia. Understanding what happens during the cremation process can help families make informed decisions and provide peace of mind. This guide explains the cremation process step-by-step.
At Gardenia Funerals, we provide professional cremation services with full transparency and respect for your loved one. Our experienced team is available to answer any questions about the cremation process.
The Cremation Process: Step-by-Step
Preparation and Identification
Before cremation begins, the deceased is carefully prepared and placed in a cremation container (typically a cardboard casket). A metal identification disc is attached to ensure proper identification throughout the process.
Family members may be present for a final viewing before the cremation container is sealed. This provides an opportunity for a final farewell.
Loading into the Crematory
The cremation container is placed on a gurney and loaded into the crematory chamber. The crematory operator verifies the identification disc to ensure the correct deceased is being cremated.
Modern crematories have sophisticated identification systems to prevent mix-ups and ensure complete accountability throughout the process.
The Cremation Chamber
The crematory chamber is heated to extremely high temperatures, typically between 1,400°F and 1,800°F (760°C to 980°C). At these temperatures, the cremation container and the body are reduced to ash and bone fragments within 1-2 hours.
The intense heat causes the body to be reduced to its basic elements. This process is called oxidation and is similar to natural decomposition, but occurs much more rapidly.
Cooling and Processing
After the cremation is complete, the remains are allowed to cool in the crematory chamber. Once cooled, the ashes and bone fragments are carefully removed and placed in a processing machine.
The processing machine grinds the bone fragments into a fine powder, creating what is commonly called “ashes” or “cremains.” This typically weighs between 3-9 pounds (1.4-4 kg), depending on the size of the deceased.
Return of Ashes
The cremains are placed in an urn or container of the family’s choice. The identification disc is placed with the urn to verify that the correct remains are being returned to the family.
The family receives the ashes, typically within 3-5 business days of the cremation. Families can choose to scatter the ashes, keep them in an urn, bury them, or arrange a memorial service.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cremation
How long does the entire cremation process take?
The actual cremation takes 1-2 hours. However, from the time of death to receiving the ashes typically takes 3-5 business days, allowing time for paperwork, authorisations, and processing.
Is cremation environmentally friendly?
Yes, cremation is generally considered more environmentally friendly than traditional burial. It requires less land and does not involve embalming chemicals. Modern crematories also have emission control systems.
What happens to metal implants during cremation?
Metal implants such as pacemakers, hip replacements, and dental work are removed before cremation or are separated from the ashes during processing. Pacemakers must be removed as they can explode at high temperatures.
Can multiple people be cremated at the same time?
No, each cremation is performed individually to ensure proper identification and prevent mixing of remains. This is a strict requirement in Australia and is enforced by crematory regulations.
How much do the ashes weigh?
The weight of cremains typically ranges from 3-9 pounds (1.4-4 kg), depending on the size and bone density of the deceased. On average, cremains weigh about 3-4 pounds (1.4-1.8 kg).
What are the ashes made of?
Cremains are primarily composed of bone fragments and ash. They are not actually “ashes” in the traditional sense, but rather the remaining bone material after the body has been exposed to extreme heat. The colour is typically grey or white.
What to Do With Cremains
Scattering
Many families choose to scatter the ashes in a meaningful location such as a favourite beach, garden, or mountain. Some prefer to scatter at sea or in a designated scattering garden.
Burial
Cremains can be buried in a cemetery plot, family grave, or memorial garden. This provides a permanent place for family members to visit and remember their loved one.
Keeping in an Urn
Many families choose to keep the ashes in a decorative urn at home. This allows them to maintain a connection with their loved one and can be a focal point for remembrance
Memorial Service
Some families hold a memorial service with the ashes present, allowing friends and family to gather and celebrate the life of the deceased before deciding on final placement.
Jewellery or Keepsakes
Some families choose to have a portion of the ashes placed in memorial jewellery, such as pendants or rings, allowing them to keep their loved one close.
Splitting Ashes
Cremains can be divided among family members, allowing multiple people to keep a portion of their loved one. This is a common practice in multicultural families.
Cremation in Different Cultures
Cremation practices and beliefs vary significantly across different cultures and religions. At Gardenia Funerals, we respect and accommodate all cultural and religious preferences regarding cremation.
Buddhist Traditions
In Buddhist traditions, cremation is often preferred as it is believed to release the spirit from the body. Cremation ceremonies may include prayers and rituals performed by monks.
Hindu Traditions
Cremation is a central part of Hindu funeral rites, believed to purify the soul and allow it to be reborn. The eldest son traditionally lights the funeral pyre, though modern cremation is now common.
Chinese Traditions
In Chinese culture, cremation is increasingly accepted, though traditional burial was historically preferred. Cremains are often placed in columbarium niches or scattered in meaningful locations.
Western Traditions
In Western cultures, cremation has become increasingly popular as a cost-effective and environmentally conscious alternative to traditional burial. It offers flexibility in memorial services.
Need Help With Cremation Arrangements?
Our experienced team at Gardenia Funerals can answer all your questions
about cremation and help you make the right choice for your loved one.