Stephanie Dominas, Author at Core Scientific - Cremation Recycling https://core-cremationrecycling.com/author/stephaniecore-scientific-com/ Leader in Cremation Recycling Tue, 10 Jun 2025 16:30:37 +0000 en hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.5 https://core-cremationrecycling.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/logo-cremo-square.png Stephanie Dominas, Author at Core Scientific - Cremation Recycling https://core-cremationrecycling.com/author/stephaniecore-scientific-com/ 32 32 Choosing the Right Cremation Processor https://core-cremationrecycling.com/choosing-the-right-cremation-processor/ Mon, 11 Nov 2024 19:50:54 +0000 https://core-cremationrecycling.com/?p=26713 The post Choosing the Right Cremation Processor appeared first on Core Scientific - Cremation Recycling.

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Choosing the Right Cremation Processor: Pros, Cons, and Recommendations for Every Crematory Size

When it comes to crematory operations, having the right equipment can make all the difference. Choosing the appropriate cremation processor depends on factors such as the size of your operation, budget, and desired efficiency. Below, we explore the pros and cons of different types of cremation processors, helping you make an informed decision for your facility.

1. Manual Processors

Pros:

• Cost-effective for smaller crematories.

• Simple maintenance and repair.

• Provides flexibility for operators to handle different post-cremation materials.

Cons:

• Time-consuming and labor-intensive.

• Increased potential for operator fatigue.

• Risk of inconsistent results in processing remains.

Best For: Small crematories with lower volumes of cremations and operators who prefer hands-on control.

2. Automated Processors

Pros:

• Significantly reduces manual labor and operator workload.

• Increases the consistency and speed of processing.

• Advanced models may include features like metal separation and dust containment.

Cons:

• Higher upfront costs compared to manual systems.

• Requires regular maintenance and technical expertise.

• Less flexible when handling unique or special cases.

Best For: Medium to large crematories looking for efficiency, consistency, and reduced operator intervention.

3. High-Efficiency Processors

Pros:

• Designed to handle high volumes with optimized energy consumption.

• Includes advanced filtration systems that reduce environmental impact.

• Often equipped with built-in safety and compliance features.

Cons:

• Higher investment cost, suitable for larger facilities.

• May require training for operators to handle the advanced technology.

• Ongoing maintenance can be more complex and costly.

Best For: Large crematories focused on scalability, eco-friendliness, and meeting high demand.

Key Considerations for Upgrading Equipment

  • Budget: Evaluate initial costs versus long-term savings in energy, labor, and maintenance.
  • Volume: Understand your average monthly cremation numbers to choose a machine that matches your workload.
  • Compliance: Ensure the equipment meets local, state, and federal regulations for emissions and waste handling.
  • Training: Factor in the need for staff training to operate new technology safely and effectively.

Recommendations for Crematories Looking to Improve

For crematories ready to upgrade their equipment, investing in an automated or high-efficiency processor can enhance productivity while maintaining quality and compliance. If your operation is on the smaller side but growing, consider transitioning from a manual to an automated system for a smoother workflow. Larger crematories may benefit from adopting advanced, eco-friendly processors that contribute to sustainable operations.

At Core Scientific, we understand the value of streamlined processes that not only optimize your business but also reduce stress on your team. The right processor can make a significant impact on how efficiently you manage your operations, ensuring consistent service while keeping your workload manageable.

Contact Core Scientific today for a free consultation and learn more about how you can implement a post-cremation recycling program.

Contact us now!
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]]> Mastering Material Mapping in Crematories: Ensuring Safe, Compliant, and Valuable Outcomes https://core-cremationrecycling.com/mastering-material-mapping-in-crematories-ensuring-safe-compliant-and-valuable-outcomes/ Tue, 29 Oct 2024 15:02:26 +0000 https://core-cremationrecycling.com/?p=26703 The post Mastering Material Mapping in Crematories: Ensuring Safe, Compliant, and Valuable Outcomes appeared first on Core Scientific - Cremation Recycling.

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Mastering Material Mapping in Crematories: Ensuring Safe, Compliant, and Valuable Outcomes

In the cremation industry, proper handling and separation of non-organic materials are essential for both compliance and the quality of remains provided to families. When crematory operators master the process of material mapping, they can significantly improve the efficiency and outcomes of post-cremation metal collection, benefiting not only their facility but also the families they serve and the environment. Through meticulous attention to hazardous waste management, operators also comply with federal standards, mitigating safety risks and maximizing the return from recycled materials.

Material Mapping and Its Importance in Cremation

As cremation continues to be the chosen method of disposition for many, the need for expertise in material mapping has grown. The practice involves a careful process of separating metal and foreign materials from the remains to ensure that families receive ashes free from contaminants. The types of non-organic waste collected in this process can be categorized as “hazardous waste” under EPA standards, including materials such as casket hardware, dental and orthopedic implants, and even certain pacemaker or defibrillator components.

Operators use various methods to identify and separate these metals, but improper handling can lead to contaminated remains, increased safety hazards, and missed recycling opportunities. This is where careful material mapping techniques come in, particularly to improve the quality of the remains and ensure safe disposal or recycling of all hazardous waste.

Understanding the Regulatory and Environmental Impacts of Hazardous Waste

Handling non-organic materials in compliance with EPA regulations is crucial for crematories. According to Title 40 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, non-organic post-cremation materials must be treated as hazardous waste and disposed of accordingly. Failing to comply with these standards could result in significant environmental and legal consequences. Proper recycling mitigates these risks by securely shipping materials to a trusted refinery for professional processing.

Beyond legal compliance, responsible recycling also reduces the need for mining and processing raw materials, helping preserve natural resources and reduce pollution. By understanding the impact of these hazardous materials, crematory operators can ensure that they are not only preserving the dignity of the remains but also contributing to environmental sustainability.

Pro Tips from Experienced Operators: Efficient Collection and Separation of Non-Organic Materials

After consulting with top crematory operators across the U.S. and Canada, it’s clear that a systematic approach to collecting post-cremation metals can make a big difference in both operational efficiency and financial returns. These seasoned operators, who often have over 20 years of experience, have fine-tuned their process to consistently produce cleaner remains, increasing the value of their recycled materials in the process.

Here are some expert tips from these operators:

  1. Consistent Material Collection Enhances Value
    Maintaining a regular process for collecting metals like titanium screws, dental crowns, and non-magnetic hardware not only results in cleaner remains but also ensures a higher recycling return. These proceeds often go toward charitable contributions, transforming the role of the operator into one that provides social and environmental value.
  2. Manual Techniques to Supplement Traditional Processors
    Traditional cremation processors may not automatically separate all types of metals, so operators often spend an additional five minutes identifying and removing non-magnetic materials by hand. This small effort yields significant improvements in the purity of remains and can enhance the facility’s recycling revenue.
  3. Leveraging Material-Specific Knowledge
    Different types of metals require specific handling, especially those that cannot be picked up by magnets. For instance:
    • Non-Magnetic Metal Mixtures: This category includes dental fillings, crowns, bridges, zinc, and copper remnants from casket hardware. These metals should be picked out by hand, as they won’t respond to magnets.
    • Titanium Screws: Known for their strength and resistance to corrosion, titanium screws oxidize to a white color in the retort, making them tricky to spot.
    • Partial Denture Frameworks: Made of medical-grade cobalt, this material is easy to identify and can be collected with larger metals.
    • Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: These crowns often contain high-value metals and don’t oxidize much at lower temperatures, so any remaining porcelain should be removed by hand.
    • Hospital Gown Buttons: Containing high levels of zinc, these buttons are also non-magnetic and should be collected manually.
     
  4. When in Doubt, Collect
    Uncertain if an item should be recycled? As a rule, send it in anyway. Even seemingly insignificant items may contain valuable materials and contribute to the overall value of your recycling efforts.

Core Scientific’s Commitment to Crematories: Enhancing Safety, Value, and Compliance

For crematory operators, mastering material mapping is more than just an operational task—it’s an opportunity to ensure environmental responsibility, uphold family expectations, and support community initiatives through valuable recycling returns. Core Scientific is dedicated to partnering with crematories to optimize their recycling programs through our STEP program: Security, Transparency, Education, and Processing.

By leveraging this expertise, Core Scientific helps operators achieve cleaner remains, safe hazardous waste disposal, and higher recycling proceeds. Whether you’re new to the field or a seasoned professional, our goal is to equip you with the skills and knowledge to manage materials responsibly and make a positive impact on both the environment and your facility’s operations.

At Core Scientific, we’re committed to partnering with crematories to create a responsible, profitable approach to post-cremation metal recycling. Together, we can help protect the environment, enhance your operations, and make the most of every resource.

Contact Core Scientific today for a free consultation and learn more about how you can implement a post-cremation recycling program.

Contact us now!
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Address:

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60013, United States

Phone: 866-660-4631

Working hours:

Monday-Friday: 9:00 – 5:00

Saturday: Closed

Sunday: Closed

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]]> Cremation Trends: Continued Growth Despite Slowing Rates https://core-cremationrecycling.com/cremation-trends-continued-growth-despite-slowing-rates/ Wed, 23 Oct 2024 18:23:45 +0000 https://core-cremationrecycling.com/?p=26692 The post Cremation Trends: Continued Growth Despite Slowing Rates appeared first on Core Scientific - Cremation Recycling.

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Cremation Trends: Continued Growth Despite Slowing Rates

Over the past two decades, cremation rates in the United States have seen significant growth, climbing from around 40% to over 60%. However, according to recent data from the Cremation Association of North America (CANA), this rapid growth is beginning to slow down as the industry enters a phase of “deceleration.” Despite this slowdown, the trend toward cremation remains strong, with projections suggesting that the national cremation rate will reach as high as 80% in the coming decades.

This trend, which CANA has been tracking for over a century, reflects a deep cultural shift in the way Americans approach death and disposition. While cremation rates vary significantly by region, with some areas already nearing saturation, the overall national movement towards cremation continues. Some states are now seeing cremation rates above 80%, marking a significant change from just a few years ago.

By 2028, the U.S. cremation rate is expected to reach 65.3%, following Canada’s lead, where cremation rates have already surpassed 75%. Although the annual growth rate of cremation is slowing as more states reach higher levels of adoption, the shift towards cremation as the preferred method of disposition remains steady. Cremation, it seems, has become a cultural norm—a tradition that’s here to stay.

Understanding the Factors Behind Cremation Growth

CANA’s research sheds light on the various factors driving this trend. As populations become more transient, people are less tied to the geographic and cultural traditions of burial in their hometowns. Increased mobility, exposure to new traditions, higher educational levels, and declining religious affiliation are all contributing to the rising popularity of cremation.

While cremation growth is slowing as it reaches higher percentages of the population, the factors that propelled it in the first place—affordability, environmental consciousness, and a shift in cultural attitudes—remain firmly in place. Unless a new form of disposition emerges, cremation will continue to be the dominant choice for families across the country.

The Value of Post-Cremation Metal Recycling

As cremation rates rise, so too does the need for responsible management of the materials left behind after the process. Non-organic materials like metal implants, which remain after cremation, present a unique opportunity for both environmental and financial benefits.


Medical implants and other metals, such as dental crowns, contain valuable materials like gold and palladium, which can be recovered and recycled. In fact, precious metals found in dental scrap, particularly, can fetch significant returns. For example, a single dental crown’s value can surpass that of hundreds of pounds of casket hardware. These metals are not only valuable but also help reduce the need for new mining, which has devastating environmental impacts, including soil erosion, water contamination, and air pollution.

Recycling post-cremation metals also ensures compliance with environmental regulations. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies non-organic post-cremation materials as hazardous waste, meaning they must be disposed of properly. By recycling these metals, crematories can help conserve natural resources and minimize the harmful environmental effects of mining and improper waste disposal.

How Core Scientific Can Help Crematories Maximize Their Recycling Programs

At Core Scientific, we specialize in helping crematories make the most of their post-cremation metal recycling programs. With over 500 crematories across North America relying on us, we’ve established ourselves as a trusted leader in the implant recycling industry.

Our STEP program—focusing on Security, Transparency, Education, and Processing—ensures that your crematory gets the most out of its recycling efforts. We use state-of-the-art refining technologies and provide a streamlined, secure process from start to finish. Not only does recycling post-cremation metals contribute to environmental sustainability, but it also provides crematories with a significant source of additional revenue, which can be used for operational improvements or even charitable donations.

At Core Scientific, we’re committed to partnering with crematories to create a responsible, profitable approach to post-cremation metal recycling. Together, we can help protect the environment, enhance your operations, and make the most of every resource.

Contact Core Scientific today for a free consultation and learn more about how you can implement a post-cremation recycling program.

Contact us now!
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Address:

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60013, United States

Phone: 866-660-4631

Working hours:

Monday-Friday: 9:00 – 5:00

Saturday: Closed

Sunday: Closed

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]]> Best Practices for Post-Cremation Metal Recycling https://core-cremationrecycling.com/best-practices-for-post-cremation-metal-recycling/ Fri, 30 Jun 2023 13:47:49 +0000 https://core-cremationrecycling.com/?p=26241 The post Best Practices for Post-Cremation Metal Recycling appeared first on Core Scientific - Cremation Recycling.

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Best Practices for Post-Cremation Metal Recycling: A Guide for Funeral Directors

As a Funeral Director, you play a crucial role in the cremation process. One aspect of this process that often goes unnoticed is the recycling of post-cremation metals. Recycling these metals contributes to environmental sustainability while generating funds that can benefit the communities of which funeral homes are part by being directed towards charities or invested in your business to improve your services. In this guide, we will discuss the best practices for post-cremation metal recycling, providing you with valuable insights to ensure a seamless and efficient process.

1. Understand the Value of Post-Cremation Metals:

Post-cremation metals, including surgical implants, orthopedic devices, and other non-organic materials, can be recycled to recover valuable resources. Training your staff on post-cremation metal recycling is not only environmentally responsible but also financially beneficial for your funeral home.

2. Establish Clear Procedures:

Develop a comprehensive set of procedures specifically for post-cremation metal recycling. This should include guidelines for identifying, collecting, and documenting the metals. Clearly outline the steps to be followed by your staff to ensure consistency and accuracy throughout the process. If you don’t know how to get started, feel free to schedule a consultation with Core Scientific, we will be happy to help you.

3. Train Your Staff:

Train your staff on the proper identification and separation of post-cremation metals. They should be able to distinguish between non-organic materials and organic remains, ensuring that only metals suitable for recycling are collected. Regular training sessions will keep your team up to date with the latest practices and reinforce the importance of recycling.

4. Utilize Dedicated Collection Containers:

Provide dedicated collection containers for post-cremation metals in your funeral home. These containers should be clearly labeled and easily accessible. Ensure that they are securely stored to prevent tampering or unauthorized access. Regularly empty and securely seal these containers to maintain a safe and organized recycling process.

5. Partner with a Reputable Recycling Company:

Establish a partnership with a reputable post-cremation metal recycling company, such as Core Scientific, that specializes in the recycling of such materials. Core Scientific, for instance, is a leading provider in the industry with extensive experience in recycling post-cremation metals. Our expertise ensures that the metals are properly processed, maximizing the value of the recycling and providing you with a fair return.

6. Maintain Detailed Documentation:

Maintain detailed documentation of the post-cremation metals collected. This includes accurate records of the type and quantity of metals, as well as any relevant identification markings. Proper documentation ensures transparency and traceability throughout the recycling process, making it easier to track the financial returns from the recycling efforts. Working with Core Scientific, you receive detailed documentation for all your containers processed, and you can access them through our online portal, where you monitor your post-cremation recycling program at-a-glance and details of each shipment.

As a Funeral Director, incorporating post-cremation metal recycling into your practices not only benefits the environment but also adds value to your funeral home. Partnering with a reputable recycling company like Core Scientific will further enhance the success of your recycling efforts, providing you with a trusted partner in this important endeavor.

Core Scientific is the leader of the post-cremation recycling industry, providing 100% transparency and the highest returns to our customers. With our Post-cremation Recycling Program, we help you to put in place the recycling process and assist you with training and documentation. We also provide you with the necessary containers to send the post-cremation metals and cover all shipping costs.

Contact Core Scientific today for a free consultation and learn more about how you can implement a post-cremation recycling program.

Contact us now!
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Saturday: Closed

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]]> Crematory Certification https://core-cremationrecycling.com/crematory-certification/ Thu, 19 May 2022 12:59:46 +0000 https://core-cremationrecycling.com/?p=26039 The post Crematory Certification appeared first on Core Scientific - Cremation Recycling.

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Crematory Certification

How to Become a Crematory Operator

Considering a career in the cremation industry? If you want to be a part of the deathcare sector, getting a crematory operator certification may be the right choice for you. Amongst other responsibilities, a crematory operator provides respectful cremation services, supervises legal documentation, and offers support to grieving families. In this article, we cover all about crematory certifications. Read on if you want to know more about how you can begin working in the field.

Job Description, Responsibilities, and What to Expect From the Job

The duties of a crematory technician or crematory operator are to provide comprehensive cremation services for a funeral home or crematorium. The responsibilities of this position include:

  • Receiving remains at the crematorium and transporting them
  • Ensuring all documentation is complete and accurate
  • Ensuring the body is treated with respect
  • Correctly labeling the remains 
  • Preparing the body and placing it into the incinerator
  • Returning the ashes to the authorized person
  • Providing help to family members to plan the cremation and any related services

It is of vital importance in this job to care for the deceased respectfully when performing all job functions. It is mandatory to comply with all municipal, state/provincial, and federal licensing authority regulations applicable to the cremation of human remains, whilst maintaining the highest professional standards.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states that the average annual salary for a crematory operator or technician is ​$30,330.

Requirements to Get a Crematory Operator Certification

The specific qualifications vary depending on the state where you operate, yet the general requirements include a high school diploma or GED and completion of a state-approved crematory technician training course. You can check all licensing boards and requirements by state here.

Given the inherent sensitivity of this profession, a high level of compassion and integrity is required to be successful. People working in this field should be extremely detail-oriented.

Things to Consider

Some aspects of this job may not be suitable for everyone. The nature of the tasks at hand, moderate odors, dust, or fumes may cause discomfort along with the exposure to unpleasantries associated with deceased human remains. Also, you may be needed to work on weekends, evenings, nights, and holidays.

List of Certification Courses

For your convenience, we put together a list of the most renowned cremation certification programs in the US:

  • CANA’s Crematory Operations Certification Program: Designed to provide best practices for crematory operators in the profession. This program is the most current crematory operations training available in the industry and communicates to the public your commitment to safe cremation practices and demonstrates the utmost respect and caring for their loved ones.

 

  • NFDA Cremation Certification Program: This recognized certification standard for funeral service professionals covers best practices for safe, proper, ethical crematory operations, excellence in service to cremation families, and much more.

 

  • ICCFA Crematory Operator Certification Program: Offered by the College of Cremation Services at ICCFA University, it’s a comprehensive certification that includes not only the operative part of the job but also teaches how to better serve and satisfy families.

Continuing Education

As a certified crematory operator, continuing education is essential to ensure you continue providing the best possible service to the families you serve. The National Funeral Director Association offers a series of lectures on various topics that can help you complete your education in this field. You can check the continuing education lectures offered by the NFDA here.

How to Add Value to Your Job as a Crematory Operator

Being attentive and showing compassion will surely add value to the work you do as a crematory technician. But an additional way in which you can increase the value of the cremation process is with implant recycling.

Implant recycling is the process of collecting, processing, and recycling medical implants. This practice is necessary for every crematorium as they need to dispose of non-organic metal waste responsibly, but what most people don’t know is that these metals can generate an income for the crematorium as they might contain precious metals that have a high market price. Crematories and funeral homes often take this income and donate it to affiliated charities, as a way to give back to their communities.

It is important to thoroughly consider the company you use when recycling implants, as you will need a professional, client-first, precious metal refiner that will ensure you get the most for the material you send in. The best, most respected refiners maintain transparency throughout the process.

Core Scientific is the leader in cremation recycling in the US, always providing our customers with the highest returns thanks to our 100% transparency policy and our superior technology and process.

If you want to know more about how we can help you add value to your cremation business, contact us now, and our team of experts in cremation recycling will be glad to assist you.

Free Consultation
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Phone: 866-660-4631

Working hours:

Monday-Friday: 9:00 – 5:00

Saturday: Closed

Sunday: Closed

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