What does the term 'thermal protection' refer to?

The term 'thermal protection' refers specifically to measures that are implemented to prevent overheating in various systems and devices. This is essential in both electrical and mechanical applications, where excessive heat can lead to failure, reduced efficiency, or even hazards such as fires.

In the context of electrical devices, thermal protection mechanisms may include thermal fuses, circuit breakers that trip at certain temperatures, or passive measures like heat sinks that dissipate heat more effectively. These protections are crucial in maintaining the operational integrity of devices and ensuring safety as they operate under varying load conditions.

Other terms and concepts such as protecting against power surges, shielding from electromagnetic radiation, and grounding electrical systems address different safety and functional considerations but do not directly relate to the prevention of overheating, which is the core focus of thermal protection.