When heat is generated within a space, assembly, or device as a result of various mechanical or electrical processes, there is often a need to control temperatures to ensure that overheating does not occur. As a broad umbrella term for assemblies ranging from simple heat sinks to complex liquid-cooling setups, a thermal management system is essential in achieving optimal heat control for maintaining safe operational limits. With many options available on the market, it is important to have a general understanding of common uses of thermal management systems, as well as how each design accommodates the goal of preventing unsafe temperature levels. As such, read on as we provide insight into the basic design of systems found across some of the most common industries and applications.