An information handling system may include a removable non-volatile memory module, including a non-volatile memory drive and a guide rail, and a module cage configured to receive the removable module. The module cage may include a thermal pad and a guide rail mating feature into which the guide rail of the removable module is inserted during installation to maneuver the removable module into an operating position. The guide rail mating feature may prevent the removable module from contacting the thermal pad until the removable module reaches, or nears, its operating position, at which point a wedge feature of the guide rail mating feature may press the removable module downward to contact the thermal pad. The thermal pad may include an abrasion resistance overlay. The module cage may include a metal plate below the thermal pad coupled to a heat pipe that directs heat toward a fan housing.