Installation of CSP Based Crematorium
A Concentrated Solar thermal based cremation system utilizes the energy of sun to consistently maintain a minimum preheated temperature within furnace of crematorium by circulating heat-transferring fluid/ material required for cremation of the dead body.
Rationale
Cremation has been a common practice since ancient times, typically done during the day. This matches perfectly with solar power, which is only available during the day. Traditionally, cremating one body uses about 500-600 kg of wood, which means cutting down many trees. This process contributes to global warming and air pollution. Therefore, it's important to find eco-friendly and sustainable cremation methods. Solar energy is one of the most sustainable and endless energy sources available. It produces clean heat without any pollutants. By using solar crematoriums, we can effectively address these environmental issues.
Brief About the Technology/Works being carried out
The cremation process involves burning a body at very high temperatures (700-800°C) until only brittle, calcified bones remain. This takes about 90 minutes. A Concentrated Solar thermal based cremation system will ensure preheating of furnace chamber to a preheated temperature (say around 350°C) by heating thermal fluid using concentrated solar thermal technology and remaining temperature shall be achieved using a supplementary backup system as gas. Heat energy share from Concentrated Solar Thermal system shall be around 50% of total heat required for complete cremation during solar hours. The system shall also be designed with a full-fledged back up system utilizing gas for non-solar hours. The system will ensure that the gases released are safe for the environment.
NTPC recently issued a tender for setting up a crematorium using this solar thermal technology, with a gas backup system.
Benefits of the Technology
Some of the benefits of using the technology are as follows:
- Environment friendly and sustainable process as it utilizes the energy of sun
- Can help prevent deforestation as the process requires no wood
- Prevents the pollution caused by direct burning of wood
- Flue can be conditioned and therefore, the technology does not cause any pollution