Method of isolating metallic fasteners in composite panels

A method of isolating a metallic fastener from a carbon-fiber composite panel such that the galvanic reaction between the fastener and the carbon-fiber composite panel is minimized, the method comprising:

• inserting the metallic fastener within an electrically isolating annular collar such that the electrically isolating annular collar is circumferentially disposed about the metallic fastener;
• inserting the metallic fastener and electrically isolating annular collar within a hole defined by the carbon-fiber composite panel;
• passing a portion of the metallic fastener and electrically isolating annular collar through the hole such that the portion is protruding from the carbon-fiber composite panel;
• and
• securing the protruding portion of the metallic fastener such that the protruding portion of metallic fastener is restrained from passing into the hole;
• and
• wherein the annular collar separates and electrically isolates the entire metallic fastener from the carbon-fiber composite panel.

An assembly comprising:

• a first carbon-fiber composite panel;
• a second carbon-fiber composite panel abutting the first carbon-fiber composite panel, the first and second carbon-fiber composite panels defining a common hole;
• an electrically isolating annular collar disposed within the hole and defining a central bore;
• a metallic fastener disposed within the central bore such that the electrically isolating annular collar is circumferentially disposed about the metallic fastener, the metallic fastener including:
• a head portion disposed adjacent to the first carbon-fiber composite panel;
• a deformable end portion disposed adjacent to the second carbon-fiber composite panel;
• and
• a body portion disposed within the hole.