What is the purpose of the afterburner in cremation?

The afterburner in cremation serves the vital function of ensuring complete combustion of unburned materials. During the cremation process, organic materials and certain gases can remain unburned, leading to incomplete burning if not properly managed. The afterburner operates at a higher temperature than the primary chamber, allowing for further oxidation of these remaining materials. This process not only helps in fully reducing the body to ash but also significantly minimizes the emission of pollutants and ensures that the resulting gases and particulates are appropriately treated before entering the environment.

The presence of an afterburner enhances the efficiency of the cremation system by optimizing combustion conditions, which is essential for meeting environmental regulations and promoting public health. This function is crucial for maintaining both operational effectiveness and ecological responsibility in crematory operations.