Retort

A retort refers to the specialized furnace where a Cremation process takes place.

The retort is where the physical transformation of the deceased person's body into cremated Remains occurs; it's designed to safely and efficiently reduce a body to bone fragments and ashes through the application of intense heat.

The entire process typically takes several hours, depending upon body size and the type of equipment used. After the cremation is complete, the cremated remains are carefully collected, processed in a Cremulator to refine into a finer ash, and placed in an Urn or container for the Surviving Family's chosen final disposition.

Crematory facilities are subject to regulatory oversight to ensure that cremations are conducted in accordance with state laws and regulations, and they are operated by trained and certified professionals to maintain the highest standards of dignity and professionalism.

Key features and functions of a crematory retort:

Structure: A crematory retort is typically a large, insulated, and fire-resistant chamber made of materials capable of withstanding extremely high temperatures. It is designed to contain the intense heat generated during the cremation process.

High Temperatures: The retort is equipped with burners, typically fueled by natural gas or propane, that produce temperatures ranging from approximately 1,600 to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. These high temperatures are necessary to break down the body's organic matter and reduce it to bone fragments.

Loading and Unloading: The retort is accessed through one or more doors that allow for the loading of the deceased person's body and the subsequent collection of the remains after the cremation process is complete.

Control Systems: Modern crematory retorts are equipped with advanced control systems that regulate the temperature, duration, and other parameters of the cremation process. These systems ensure consistency and safety throughout the cremation.

Air Filtration: Cremation generates emissions, including gases and particulate matter. Many crematories are equipped with emission control systems, such as air filtration or abatement systems, to minimize environmental impact and comply with local regulations.

Cooling Systems: After the cremation is complete, the retort may have built-in cooling systems to rapidly cool the remains, making them safe to handle for further processing.

Safety Measures: Crematory operators adhere to strict safety protocols to ensure the safety of the facility and its personnel. This includes safety procedures for loading and unloading the retort and handling potential hazards associated with the process.