What is the purpose of stiffeners in a casket?

The purpose of stiffeners in a casket is to provide additional strength to the casket shell. Stiffeners are structural components that reinforce the casket, helping it to maintain its shape and integrity over time, especially during transport and handling. This added strength is crucial for ensuring that the casket can withstand the weight it may encounter, both from the body it contains and from external pressures during transport or burial. Stiffeners also contribute to the overall durability of the casket, ensuring that it serves its purpose effectively throughout the funeral service and beyond.

While some might consider comfort or decorative aspects of a casket, those are not the primary functions of stiffeners. Their main role is structural support, which is fundamental to the design and functionality of a casket.