A steam boiler is a device that heats water to create steam, which can be used for various applications, such as heating buildings or powering machinery. The boiler operates by burning fuel or using electricity to heat the water in a closed system, allowing the steam to build pressure. Once the steam is generated, it can be directed through pipes to perform work, such as turning turbines in power plants or providing heat in industrial processes. Steam boilers are essential in many industries, including manufacturing and energy production, due to their efficiency and ability to generate large amounts of steam quickly.