Book excerpt: "Safe Boiler Operation Fundamentals: Special Engineer's Guide for the State of Minnesota is an introductory textbook on safe boiler operation. It is a comprehensive resource for those studying for a Special Engineer's license in Minnesota. The book begins with an overview of selected Minnesota statutes related to boiler operation and design. It continues with chapters covering the basics of thermodynamics and heat transfer, boiler design, hot water boilers, steam boilers, piping and valves, feedwater, combustion, and draft. It concludes with chapters covering boiler operation, hazardous operating conditions, and boiler maintenance and inspections"--P. [4] of cover.