How Cremation Surgical Implant Metal Recycling Works

How Cremation Metal Recycling Works

After the cremation process, most families assume everything turns to ash — but that’s not quite the case. Metals such as titanium, cobalt, stainless steel, and dental alloys remain intact. What happens next can make a huge difference for both the environment and your crematory’s bottom line.

At Turn It Green, we’ve developed a transparent, respectful process that ensures these valuable metals are recovered responsibly and refined ethically — so nothing goes to waste.

Step 1: Safe Collection After Cremation

Once the cremation is complete and the remains have cooled, specialized tools are used to separate residual metals from the ashes. This includes everything from surgical implants (like hip or knee replacements) to dental fillings and other non-combustible materials.

Our team provides crematories with secure, labeled collection containers to make the process seamless and compliant with all environmental and safety standards.

Step 2: Sorting and Categorization

Collected metals are carefully sorted into categories — surgical implants, dental metals, and miscellaneous alloys. This step ensures each metal type is refined using the most efficient and precise method possible, maximizing its value.

By managing sorting at the source, Turn It Green eliminates contamination and ensures a clear, traceable chain from recovery to refinery.

Step 3: In-House Refining

Unlike third-party recyclers who send materials elsewhere, Turn It Green handles the refining process in-house. This not only keeps payouts higher for crematories but also ensures that every step — from smelting to assay testing — remains fully transparent.

You’ll receive detailed settlement reports showing:

The weight and purity of each metal type
The live market rate used for valuation
The total payout due to your facility

It’s full transparency, from furnace to financial return.

Step 4: Environmental Stewardship

The recovered metals are reintroduced into manufacturing streams, reducing the need for new mining and raw material extraction. It’s a small step that adds up to significant environmental savings.

By partnering with Turn It Green, crematories play a direct role in sustainability — turning waste into something that benefits both the planet and their business.

Why Transparency Matters

Some recyclers simply provide a lump-sum payment without detail. That’s risky. Without documentation, you can’t verify the true value of your recovered metals.

Turn It Green believes in clear accountability. Every transaction includes a breakdown of materials, purity, and pricing so you know exactly what you’re earning — and why.

Partner With Turn It Green

Want to see how much value your facility could be earning?
Request a complimentary audit or learn more about our refining process today at weturnitgreen.com/contact.