Who Makes the Best Cremation Equipment? Our Manufacturer Roundup
Navigating the World of Cremation Technology
Cremation equipment manufacturers are specialized companies that design, build, and support the crucial technology that powers modern crematoriums. If you're looking for reliable manufacturers in this industry, here's a quick overview of the leading companies:
- Matthews Environmental Solutions - Global leader with 5,000+ installations across 7 continents
- B&L Cremation Systems - Family-owned manufacturer pioneering fuel-saving technologies
- Keller Manufacturing - 60-year legacy with 2,000+ installations and 24-hour continuous operation
- American Crematory Equipment Company - Operating since 1974 with "Manufacturing with Pride™" philosophy
- U.S. Cremation Equipment - UL-listed equipment with both human and animal cremation lines
- Cremation Systems/Addfield - Partnership offering equipment in 140+ countries with remote diagnostics
The cremation industry has evolved significantly in recent decades, with manufacturers now focusing on efficiency, automation, emissions control, and operator safety. Today's cremation equipment is a far cry from earlier generations, featuring computer controls, remote diagnostics, and environmental safeguards that meet stringent regulations.
For funeral homes and crematories, selecting the right manufacturer means finding a partner who can provide not just equipment, but comprehensive support through installation, training, maintenance, and emergency service. The best manufacturers offer customization options to fit your specific facility needs and ongoing technical support to maximize uptime.
I'm Mortuary Cooler, a national-level supplier of mortuary cooling equipment who works closely with cremation equipment manufacturers to provide comprehensive solutions for funeral homes and crematories. My experience with cooling system integration alongside cremation equipment gives me unique insight into the full spectrum of mortuary operations.
Matthews Environmental Solutions
When you're looking for a true global leader among cremation equipment manufacturers, Matthews Environmental Solutions stands in a class of its own. With an impressive track record of over 5,000 installations spanning all seven continents, they've built a reputation for excellence that's hard to match.
The heart of Matthews' innovation is their MPYRE® control system – sophisticated technology that puts operators in complete command of the cremation process. As an ISO-9001 certified company, they don't just talk about quality – they've built it into every aspect of their manufacturing process, from initial design to final installation.
"Matthews is redefining the future of cremation," as one industry expert noted, and it's easy to see why. Their focus extends beyond just building equipment to creating comprehensive solutions for emissions control, automation, and operator training. They even offer financing options to make these advanced systems accessible to more facilities.
Human Systems & Pet Lines
Matthews doesn't believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Their diverse product lineup includes specialized human cremation equipment designed for different capacity needs and facility sizes. For the growing pet cremation market, they've developed purpose-built units that give veterinary practices and pet crematoriums the perfect tools for providing compassionate end-of-life services.
Beyond cremation, Matthews offers medical and general waste incinerators for healthcare facilities, plus a full range of accessories to support cremation operations. What truly sets them apart, though, is their commitment to operator certification – they don't just sell you equipment and walk away. Their thorough training ensures your team knows exactly how to operate their systems safely and efficiently, extending equipment life and preventing costly mistakes.
Tech & Sustainability Highlights
In today's environmentally-conscious world, Matthews is leading the way with remarkable technological innovations:
Their remote diagnostic capabilities mean you're never truly alone with your equipment. When issues arise, Matthews technicians can often troubleshoot remotely, saving precious time and avoiding lengthy shutdowns. As one crematory manager in Tennessee shared, "The remote diagnostics feature has saved us countless hours of downtime. When we had an issue, Matthews technicians were able to diagnose and guide us through a solution within hours, not days."
Energy efficiency is built into every system through their innovative hot-hearth design, which not only improves cremation efficiency but significantly reduces cycle times and fuel consumption. This commitment to sustainability extends to their advanced pollution control systems, which meet or exceed even the strictest regulatory requirements.
For those interested in learning more about their scientific approach to emissions reduction, Matthews offers in-depth resources on their market information site.
B&L Cremation Systems
As the largest family-owned, independent crematory manufacturer in the world, B&L Cremation Systems brings a personal touch to the cremation equipment industry. Their Hot Hearth System revolutionized cremation efficiency by improving combustion and reducing fuel consumption.
B&L was the first manufacturer to introduce fuel-saving refractory materials and ceramics in their equipment design, a move that has since been adopted industry-wide. Their commitment to innovation is matched by their dedication to service, with 24/7 emergency support available to their customers.
"We work hard daily to change today's crematory and funeral industry with the highest quality equipment you can trust," says the B&L team, reflecting their commitment to continuous improvement.
Product Lineup
B&L's comprehensive product range includes:
- Human cremators designed for reliability and efficiency
- Pet cremators, including the industry's first multi-door animal crematories
- Ancillary equipment to support cremation operations
- Medical waste incinerators for healthcare facilities
- Quick-Change hearth systems that minimize downtime during repairs
The multi-door animal crematory innovation has been particularly important for pet cremation services, allowing them to efficiently handle multiple cremations while maintaining separation between remains—a critical feature for providing private cremations to pet owners.
Compliance & Support
Beyond equipment sales, B&L provides comprehensive support services:
- Certified operator training to ensure safe and compliant operation
- Annual tune-ups to maintain peak performance
- Refractory repairs performed by specialized technicians
- 24/7 emergency hotline (727-415-2361) for urgent service needs
"Our service is second to none," claims B&L, and their customers seem to agree. One crematory operator noted, "The annual tune-up service has kept our equipment running like new for years. It's been a great investment."
Keller Manufacturing
With a 60-year legacy in the cremation industry and more than 2,000 installations worldwide, Keller Manufacturing stands as one of the most trusted names in cremation technology. Their reputation is built on reliability and innovation, particularly with their KMH series of human cremators that can operate continuously for 24 hours without cooldown periods—a game-changer for busy crematories managing multiple cases daily.
What truly sets Keller apart is their thoughtful approach to automation. Their Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) systems take the guesswork out of cremation by managing the entire process from start to finish. I've spoken with several funeral directors who appreciate how this technology maintains consistency across different operators and shifts.
"The electronic exhaust scanner has saved us from potential compliance issues more than once," a crematory manager in Colorado told me. This innovative feature automatically adjusts operations if smoke opacity approaches local limits—protecting both the environment and your relationship with regulators.
Key Technologies
The engineering behind Keller's systems reflects decades of refinement. Their dual-chamber design with over-fire air ensures complete combustion, while the heavy-duty insulation is what enables those impressive 24-hour continuous operations that busy facilities need.
For tech-savvy operators, Keller offers optional data acquisition systems that track performance metrics over time. This data becomes invaluable for identifying optimization opportunities and documenting regulatory compliance. Their virtual service capabilities have become especially appreciated in recent years, allowing technicians to diagnose many issues remotely without the wait for an on-site visit.
The modulating burners in Keller systems are particularly clever—they adjust flame intensity based on need rather than simply turning on and off. This means more stable temperatures and lower fuel bills, something every crematory manager can appreciate.
"The retention time in our secondary chamber exceeds one to two seconds," a Keller engineer explained during a recent trade show demonstration. "This ensures complete combustion and significantly reduces emissions." This attention to combustion efficiency isn't just good for the planet—it translates directly to cleaner operation and lower operating costs.
Human vs Animal Offerings
Keller's human cremators operate with primary chamber temperatures between 1,000–1,200°F and secondary chamber temperatures reaching 1,600–1,800°F. These systems handle remains efficiently with cycle times typically ranging from 60-90 minutes depending on the model chosen. With capacities from 800 to 1,200 lbs per load, they're built to accommodate the needs of any facility.
On the animal cremation side, Keller has developed specialized equipment that addresses the unique challenges of pet cremation. Their animal cremators feature multiple chamber options designed specifically for different sized companions, from small birds to large livestock. The specialized controls account for varying tissue densities, ensuring complete cremation regardless of the animal's size or composition.
Facilities offering both individual and communal pet cremations particularly value the flexibility of Keller's animal systems, which can be configured to support various service offerings. Both their human and animal systems comply with—and typically exceed—federal, state/province, and local environmental regulations, featuring UL/CSA listed components and adherence to IIA construction guidelines.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we've worked alongside many cremation equipment manufacturers like Keller, helping funeral homes integrate cooling systems that complement their cremation operations. The reliability of Keller's systems pairs well with our custom cooling solutions, creating a seamless workflow for facilities managing multiple cases.
American Crematory Equipment Company
Operating since 1974 under the philosophy of "Manufacturing with Pride™," American Crematory Equipment Company has established itself as one of the longest-standing cremation equipment manufacturers in North America. Their A-200 cremation chamber has become something of a legend in the industry, with documented cases of processing over 400 cremations in its first eight months of operation without service issues.
American Crematory offers both traditional and innovative solutions, including their "Fireless Cremation" alternatives. Their equipment is designed and built in the USA, with direct delivery available across the contiguous 48 states.
"American Crematory Equipment Company is considered the premier manufacturing, service and repair company in North America and Beyond," states the company, a claim supported by their longevity and customer testimonials.
Services Beyond Sales
American Crematory stands out for their comprehensive service offerings:
- Complete installation services for new equipment
- Maintenance programs to ensure ongoing reliability
- Specialized refractory rebuild teams that travel nationwide
- Financing options to make equipment acquisition more accessible
- R4 recycling program for environmentally responsible disposal
One customer testimonial highlights their service excellence: "The technician quietly listened to our issues and fixed problems that had been unresolved for four years." This commitment to service is encapsulated in their second philosophy: "Service Is Everything™."
Innovation Spotlight
American Crematory's equipment boasts impressive performance metrics:
- Average fuel cost of just $12 per cremation (based on 400+ case study)
- Capacity to handle 8–10 cases per day in continuous operation
- Ability to accommodate remains up to 730 lbs
- Environmentally conscious operating platforms that meet or exceed regulations
"This may sound corny," wrote one operator, "but when I open the door to begin or finish a cremation, I just take a minute to admire the work!" This kind of enthusiasm speaks to the quality and design of their equipment.
U.S. Cremation Equipment
There's something impressive about watching a company grow right before your eyes. U.S. Cremation Equipment has become one of the fastest-growing cremation equipment manufacturers in recent years, expanding their reach both across America and internationally. What sets them apart? For starters, their equipment carries the coveted Underwriters Laboratories (UL) listing – essentially a gold seal of approval that tells customers "this equipment meets rigorous safety standards."
What I find particularly practical about U.S. Cremation Equipment is their balanced approach – they don't just focus on human cremation systems but have developed equally thoughtful solutions for animal cremation. This versatility makes them a one-stop shop for different facilities with varying needs.
Their membership in the Cremation Association of North America (CANA) speaks volumes about their commitment to industry excellence. CANA isn't just any organization – founded back in 1913 and now boasting over 1,500 members, it represents the gold standard in cremation practices and professional development.
Technology & Compliance Focus
When you talk with the folks at U.S. Cremation Equipment, their enthusiasm for technological advancement is contagious. Their high-efficiency burner systems don't just sound impressive – they translate to real fuel savings that make a difference to your bottom line month after month.
Their emissions control systems deserve special mention too. In an era of increasingly strict environmental regulations, their equipment doesn't just meet the requirements – it often exceeds them, giving crematory operators peace of mind about compliance for years to come.
I've spoken with several funeral directors who appreciate U.S. Cremation Equipment's flexible financing options. Let's face it – cremation equipment represents a significant investment, and having financing pathways can make all the difference for many businesses, especially independent operations.
Perhaps most telling about their service philosophy is their willingness to provide parts and service support for all brands of cremation equipment – not just their own. This customer-first approach embodies their tagline: "Advanced Technology • Superior Craftsmanship • Ultimate Performance."
Sustainability Initiatives
Environmental responsibility isn't just a buzzword for U.S. Cremation Equipment – it's woven into their design philosophy. Their energy-saving cycle designs significantly reduce the carbon footprint of cremation operations, something increasingly important to both operators and the families they serve.
For crematoriums operating older equipment, U.S. Cremation Equipment offers pollution-control retrofits that can bring existing systems up to modern environmental standards. This pragmatic approach recognizes that not every facility can afford to replace entire systems at once.
Their operator education programs deserve special mention too. Well-trained operators not only get the most from their equipment but also maintain it in ways that minimize environmental impact. As one crematory manager told me, "The training they provided made all the difference – we're saving on fuel and maintenance while knowing we're operating as cleanly as possible."
The company sums up their balanced approach perfectly: "High quality, high production, high efficiency equipment is equally important to reliability and safety." In an industry where both technical performance and compassionate service matter deeply, U.S. Cremation Equipment continues to strike that essential balance.
Cremation Systems / Addfield Partnership
When American innovation meets global manufacturing expertise, you get the powerful alliance between Cremation Systems and Addfield Environmental Systems. This partnership brings together the best of both worlds – American engineering precision and international reach that spans across continents.
Their flagship CFS2300 human cremation chamber showcases what makes this partnership special. With its recessed hot hearth design, the system easily handles cases exceeding 750 pounds – a capability that many facilities find essential in today's market. What's truly impressive is their weight-based automation system that eliminates guesswork, timers, and manual adjustments from the cremation process.
Addfield brings over 40 years of manufacturing experience to the table, with an incredible footprint spanning more than 140 countries. While Cremation Systems provides strong North American presence and technical expertise, Addfield contributes global manufacturing capabilities that few competitors can match.
Turnkey Services
What truly makes this partnership shine is their comprehensive approach to getting you up and running. They don't just sell equipment – they handle the entire process from start to finish:
"Trucking, cranes, rigging, air permits... this isn't everyday work for funeral directors and cremationists. This is what we do and we love doing it," explains the company.
This turnkey approach includes complete design packages for standalone crematories, coordination of all trucking, cranes, and rigging during installation, assistance with air permits and regulatory compliance, management of utility hookups and connections, and remarkably rapid installation and commissioning.
For many funeral homes and crematories, navigating these complex logistics can be overwhelming. Having a partner who handles these details from start to finish creates a much smoother transition to new equipment.
Customization & Remote Support
Innovation drives this partnership forward in ways that translate to real benefits for crematory operators. Their Quick Change modular hearth tile system allows for complete hearth replacement in just one day – a process that traditionally takes much longer with other cremation equipment manufacturers. Better yet, there's no curing or dry-out cycle required after hearth replacement, meaning you can get back to serving families faster.
Their Tek Marshal remote diagnostics system represents a technological leap forward. When issues arise, technicians can often diagnose and sometimes even resolve problems without making an on-site visit. As the company notes, "Internet-based diagnostics and remote access reduce on-site repair technician visits," which means less downtime and lower service costs for crematory operators.
With an international distribution network reaching 140+ countries, the partnership ensures that support is never far away, regardless of where your facility is located. This global presence combined with cutting-edge remote capabilities makes the Cremation Systems/Addfield partnership a forward-thinking choice for crematories looking toward the future of the industry.
How to Choose Between Cremation Equipment Manufacturers
Choosing the right cremation equipment manufacturer is like selecting a long-term business partner—one you'll rely on for decades. With so many reputable companies in the market, how do you know which one is the perfect fit for your funeral home or crematory?
"When selecting cremation equipment, think beyond the initial purchase price," a crematory consultant once told me. "The total cost of ownership includes fuel, maintenance, and eventual rebuilds or upgrades."
Let's walk through what really matters in this important decision. First, consider your regulatory environment—your equipment must meet all federal, state, and local emissions requirements without exception. Next, be honest about your capacity needs, both for today and tomorrow. Will you need to accommodate larger cases? Are you expecting growth in your cremation volume?
Cycle time is another critical factor. Modern equipment can complete cremations much faster than older models, potentially doubling your daily capacity without additional staff. And don't forget about fuel type—while natural gas is most common, some facilities rely on propane or even electricity in certain regions.
The level of automation can dramatically impact your daily operations. Today's sophisticated PLC systems reduce operator workload and improve consistency, making the process more reliable and less dependent on operator skill. This technology has transformed the industry, allowing for remote monitoring and even diagnostics.
Maintenance requirements, financing options, customization capabilities, and sustainability features round out your key considerations. The best manufacturers will help you steer these factors to find the perfect match for your specific situation.
Environmental & Safety Compliance
Environmental regulations have become increasingly stringent for crematories, making compliance non-negotiable in today's world. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s air-emissions rules outline clear limits for particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and other pollutants that your equipment must meet.
Most cremation equipment manufacturers proudly state that "all units comply with or exceed federal, state/province and local environmental regulations." This isn't just marketing—it's essential for your ongoing operation.
Look for equipment with proper certifications. CANA membership and UL listings indicate adherence to industry standards and safety protocols. All modern cremation equipment includes secondary afterburners, which are essential for complete combustion and significantly reduce harmful emissions.
Many jurisdictions have strict opacity limits—essentially regulations on visible smoke from your stack. In some areas, particularly those with air quality challenges, additional scrubbers or filtration systems may be required. A good manufacturer will help you steer these local requirements before you purchase.
For deeper insights into emissions-reduction technology, review the technical resources provided by the Cremation Association of North America.
Cost & Financing Breakdown
Understanding the full financial picture helps prevent surprises down the road. The initial purchase is just the beginning of your investment in cremation equipment.
For basic human cremators, expect to pay between $80,000 and $150,000. If you're looking at advanced systems with full automation and remote capabilities, prices typically range from $150,000 to $250,000 or more. Pet cremation systems are generally more affordable, ranging from $40,000 to $100,000 depending on capacity and features.
Don't forget installation costs, which typically run between $10,000 and $30,000 depending on your facility's specific requirements. Some manufacturers include basic installation in their purchase price, while others itemize these costs separately.
The operational costs are equally important in your calculation. Cremation equipment manufacturers with energy-efficient designs can significantly reduce your fuel costs—typically ranging from $10 to $30 per cremation depending on local fuel prices. Annual maintenance runs between $3,000 and $10,000 for most operations, with major refractory rebuilds costing $15,000 to $40,000 every 3-7 years depending on your case volume.
Most manufacturers offer financing options, typically with 3-5 year terms. Traditional equipment leasing and bank loans are also common. When calculating ROI, most funeral homes and crematories look at a 7-10 year equipment lifecycle, though many units remain in service much longer with proper maintenance.
For a deeper dive into the economics of cremation equipment, read The Real Cost of Cremation Machines Revealed.
Process to Purchase from Cremation Equipment Manufacturers
The journey from initial inquiry to operational crematory involves several important steps, and understanding this process helps set realistic expectations.
First, be prepared for professional eligibility verification. "You must be from a crematory, funeral home, cemetery, or authorized educator to purchase," is a common policy in the industry. Cremation equipment manufacturers only sell to licensed professionals, not the general public.
Securing local zoning approval and environmental permits is often the most time-consuming part of the process. Many manufacturers can help guide you through this paperwork, but ultimately, these approvals must come from your local authorities.
You'll need to provide detailed facility information for proper equipment sizing and installation planning. Measurements, utility access, and building specifications are all critical to ensure a smooth installation.
Lead times typically run 3-6 months from order to installation for custom equipment, though some manufacturers maintain limited inventory of standard models for faster delivery. Operator training is mandatory and typically scheduled around your installation date. This comprehensive training ensures your staff can safely and efficiently operate the equipment.
Don't forget to complete all warranty registration paperwork and establish a relationship with the service team. Scheduling preventative maintenance from the beginning helps maximize your equipment's lifespan and minimize unexpected downtime.
For an overview of what to expect when purchasing cremation equipment, browse Cremation Machines 101: Know Your Retorts from Your Ovens and Essential Maintenance Tips for Your Cremation Furnace.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cremation Equipment Manufacturers
What's the difference between human and animal cremation equipment?
When funeral directors ask me about the differences between human and animal cremation equipment, I always explain that while the fundamental technology is similar, there are several important distinctions that matter for day-to-day operations.
Human cremation units are designed with larger primary chambers that accommodate standard caskets and typically handle remains up to 750-1,000 pounds. They feature single-chamber loading designs and must meet extremely stringent emissions standards specifically developed for human cremation. The cycle times and temperature profiles are carefully calibrated for the complete cremation of human remains.
On the animal side, the equipment often takes a different approach. B&L Cremation Systems revolutionized this segment when they became "the first to market multi-door animal and pet crematories." This innovation allows for several individual pet cremations to happen simultaneously while keeping remains separate—a crucial feature for pet cremation services offering private cremations to grieving pet owners.
Animal units are engineered with specialized controls to handle varying tissue densities, from small pets to large livestock. The partitioned chambers and optimized cycle times make them particularly efficient for veterinary and dedicated pet cremation businesses.
How long do installation and permitting usually take?
This is perhaps the most common question I hear from funeral homes considering their first cremation equipment purchase. The honest answer is: it depends on your location and local regulations.
The permitting process typically includes air quality permits (1-6 months depending on your jurisdiction), zoning approvals (1-3 months if cremation is already an approved use), and building permits (2-4 weeks once plans are submitted). Some urban areas with stricter air quality controls may take longer, while rural locations sometimes move more quickly.
Once permits are secured, the actual implementation follows a fairly predictable timeline: site preparation takes 2-4 weeks, equipment delivery usually occurs 3-6 months after ordering, and installation requires 1-2 weeks for standard setups. After that, testing and commissioning takes 2-3 days, followed by 1-3 days of comprehensive operator training.
As Cremation Systems notes, "Installing heavy equipment is a specialty we love doing." Most cremation equipment manufacturers understand that this process can be overwhelming for funeral directors, which is why the best companies offer turnkey services to manage the entire process from permits to final inspection.
Can older cremators be retrofitted with modern emission controls?
Yes! This is good news for crematories operating older equipment that still has plenty of life left. Most cremation equipment manufacturers offer retrofit options that can bring aging units up to modern standards.
Secondary afterburners can be added to older single-chamber designs, dramatically improving emissions performance. Modern computerized control systems can replace outdated manual controls, making operation more consistent and efficient. Opacity monitors help ensure compliance with visibility standards, while fuel efficiency upgrades often pay for themselves through reduced operating costs.
For units nearing the end of their useful life, complete rebuilds offer a middle path between minor upgrades and full replacement. As Keller Manufacturing puts it, "Our expert service team can give your machine a little TLC," extending equipment life while improving performance.
When considering retrofits versus replacement, I always recommend getting assessments from multiple manufacturers. Most offer free evaluations to help you make informed decisions based on your equipment's condition, your budget constraints, and your long-term business plans. The right choice often depends on both the age of your existing equipment and anticipated case volume over the next decade.
Conclusion
Selecting the right cremation equipment manufacturer is truly a decision that will impact your funeral home or crematory for decades. Each of the industry leaders we've explored—Matthews Environmental Solutions, B&L Cremation Systems, Keller Manufacturing, American Crematory Equipment Company, U.S. Cremation Equipment, and the Cremation Systems/Addfield partnership—brings something unique to the table.
When you're evaluating these manufacturers, look beyond just the price tag and technical specifications. The most successful crematory operations tell us that installation support, comprehensive training programs, responsive maintenance, and reliable emergency service make all the difference in the long run. Your perfect manufacturing partner will align with your specific facility needs, anticipated case volume, and the regulatory landscape in your area.
I've seen how the right equipment paired with proper planning creates a smooth-running operation. The manufacturers featured in this guide have all demonstrated staying power in this specialized industry, with some boasting histories spanning more than half a century.
Here at American Mortuary Coolers, we don't manufacture cremation equipment ourselves, but we work hand-in-hand with all the major players in the industry. From our Tennessee workshop, we craft custom mortuary coolers that complement new cremation equipment perfectly, creating a seamless workflow for funeral homes nationwide.
Proper body storage is an essential companion to your cremation operations. Our durable, American-made cooling solutions are designed to integrate beautifully with your new cremator, ensuring you have everything needed for dignified and efficient care of the deceased.
For more information about how our mortuary coolers can improve your cremation operations, I invite you to explore our website or reach out directly to our friendly team. We're proud to serve funeral professionals throughout the contiguous 48 states with direct delivery of our custom-built mortuary cooling solutions.
Whether you're installing your first cremator or upgrading existing equipment, we're here to help you create a complete, thoughtfully designed facility that honors both the families you serve and the professionals who work there every day.