Casket Specifications
Many different burial practices exist across the world and throughout history. Today, cremation is on the rise, leaving the demand for caskets at a standstill. A casket differs from a coffin. In the 19th century, caskets replaced coffins as the preferred form of burial. A casket is a rectangular box, whereas a coffin has outward bulges at the center of the structure. A casket has three essential elements: a shell, lining and handles or accessories.
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Materials
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Many different raw materials are used in casket manufacturing. Typically, caskets in the United States are made from 18- or 20-gauge steel. Before each step in manufacturing is complete, the steel is inspected to ensure that it is the proper gauge and quality. Material can differ greatly across cultures and income levels, however. The most expensive caskets are made of solid bronze. Cheaper wooden caskets are made of pine, while more expensive wooden models are made of hardwoods like cherry or mahogany. Switzerland offers a casket called a peace box, which is made entirely of recycled cardboard materials. Fiberglass is another common choice in America, next to steel.
Linings and Hinges
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Caskets consist of an outer shell and an inner lining, typically made of velvet or taffeta, that is strengthened with batting in the form of cardboard and polyester. Rubber is used if a gasket is used to seal the casket. Paint is occasionally used on and around the hinges and accessories for additional ornamentation. Steel and other metals are used for the hinges on the casket.
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Sizes
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Caskets are built to fit people of all sizes. The average person is close to 6 feet long, 18 inches wide and 6 inches high when lying down. Although caskets come in a variety of sizes, the typical casket is 84 inches long, 28 inches wide and 23 inches tall. This is more than enough room to hold a large or tall person.
Oversized Caskets
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The American obesity epidemic is affecting the casket market, as well as casket manufacturing. The industry is faced with the notion that the standard 28-inch-wide casket may not be large enough to fit some Americans. Due to poor diet, Americans are increasing in size. Today, the largest caskets are 52 inches wide.
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References
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