Burning a human body completely is a difficult task that requires high temperatures and ample oxygen. This article will explore the various factors involved in cremating a body, including the required heat, time, and equipment needed.
Average Body Weight
The first factor to consider is the weight of the average adult human body. According to research, the average weight is:
| Gender | Average Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|
| Male | 195.5 |
| Female | 168.5 |
As you can see, an average adult male weighs around 195.5 lbs, while an average adult female is lighter at 168.5 lbs. This average weight can vary greatly depending on age, height, and body composition.
Cremation Temperature
The next important factor is the temperature required to successfully cremate a human body. According to cremation experts, the ideal temperature is between 1400-1800°F (760-982°C). At this heat range, a body can be fully cremated and reduced to dry bone fragments in under 2 hours.
Here are some key temperature guidelines:
- At 1100°F (593°C), body fat begins to melt.
- At 1300°F (704°C), the body starts to char and burn.
- 1400-1800°F (760-982°C) is ideal for complete cremation.
- Over 1800°F (982°C), the body is reduced to mineral ash and fragments.
Most modern cremation chambers can easily reach temperatures over 1800°F. The intense heat ensures the body, coffin, and any other materials are completely burned and broken down.
Cremation Equipment
To generate sufficient heat for cremation, special equipment is required, including:
- Cremation Chamber – Where the body is placed. Reaches temps over 1800°F.
- Burners – Fueled by gas or oil to generate heat.
- Blower Motors – Circulates air for optimal burning.
- Combustion Chamber – Secondary burning area to ensure completeness.
- Pollution Control System – Filters emissions from the chamber.
Professional crematories are equipped with powerful, advanced systems to ensure every body is thoroughly cremated. The process is carefully controlled and monitored throughout.
Time Required for Cremation
How much time does a full body cremation take? With the intense heat and proper equipment, cremation time can vary:
- 1 – 2 hours for an average adult body
- 3+ hours for a larger/obese body
- 1 hour for a small body (child)
The cremation chamber temperature is usually kept at around 1600°F. At this temp, complete cremation of an average adult can be achieved in about 1.5 hours. Larger bodies may take longer due to the greater mass. Child cremations can be faster.
Cremation Process Step-by-Step
Here is an overview of the modern cremation process from start to finish:
- The body is placed in a combustible container or casket that enters the cremation chamber.
- The chamber heat progressively increases from 400°F to 1600°F-1800°F.
- At around 1300°F, the container ignites and the body begins burning.
- Blower motors circulate air to facilitate even burning.
- After 1-2 hours, the body is fully cremated, leaving only bone fragments.
- The cremains are then processed to a uniform ash consistency.
- Once cooled, the cremains are placed in an urn or container.
The process is highly efficient and thoroughly cremates all organic matter, leaving only mineral remains.
Factors That Impact Cremation Time
While the average cremation time is 1-2 hours, there are several factors that can impact the length of time required:
Body Size and Weight
Larger, heavier bodies require more time to fully cremate. An obese body over 250 lbs may take 3 hours or longer to burn completely.
Body Position
Bodies placed in a fetal position, or stacked on top of each other, can slow air circulation and heat transfer. This extends cremation time.
Container Type
Hard, dense containers like metal caskets take longer to cremate than combustible wood or cardboard containers.
Chamber Temperature
If the temperature falls below 1400°F for any reason, the cremation time will be extended.
Equipment Factors
Malfunctioning or improperly maintained burners, blowers, and other equipment can lead to reduced heat and air flow, slowing the process.
Proper protocols are followed to ensure optimal operational conditions for each cremation.
Common Cremation Myths
There are many myths and misconceptions regarding cremations. Here are some common ones:
Myth: The entire body vaporizes to ash
Fact: While the body burns away, the skeletal structure remains and is ground up after cremation. The remaining bone fragments represent about 4-8 lbs of cremains.
Myth: Pacemakers explode during cremation
Fact: Modern crematories have procedures to safely remove and dispose of pacemakers before cremation.
Myth: Cremation prevents a funeral service
Fact: A memorial service with cremated remains is common. The ashes can also be buried or scattered.
Myth: Cremation is forbidden by religion
Fact: Cremation is acceptable to many religions including Catholicism, Protestant denominations, Hinduism, and Buddhism.
Myth: Cremation is illegal
Fact: Cremation is legal in all 50 U.S. states and most countries worldwide.
DIY Cremations
Some people may wonder if it’s possible to conduct a DIY body cremation at home. However, this is usually illegal and extremely hazardous.
Reasons not to attempt a homemade cremation:
- Reaching cremation temperatures over 1400°F is difficult and dangerous with makeshift equipment.
- Smoke, smell, and hazardous emissions will alert neighbors.
- Body would likely be only partially destroyed, leaving behind remains.
- Violates laws for proper handling and disposal of human remains.
- Extreme risk of injury and property damage from fire.
For health, safety, and legal reasons, cremations should only be performed in licensed professional facilities.
Conclusion
Cremating a human body is a complex process that requires high heat and special equipment to reduce a body to ashes in under 2 hours. While cremation is a popular choice, there are many myths and misconceptions about what the process entails.
Due to legal and ethical concerns, do-it-yourself cremations are extremely dangerous and inappropriate. For families choosing cremation, a licensed crematory can provide a proper cremation with care and respect.