Abstract: Apparatus for bleeding electrical charge and methods for installing a ground stud in a composite structure. The apparatus includes a ground stud and a composite structure including a hole. In one embodiment the ground stud engages the hole in the composite structure in a transition fit. In another embodiment the ground stud is countersunk within the composite structure. Embodiments of the present methods include drilling a hole in the composite structure; inserting the ground stud into the hole such that the ground stud is in electrical contact with conductive fibers within the composite structure; securing the ground stud to the composite structure; and attaching a connective device to the ground stud such that the connective device is in electrical contact with the ground stud. In some embodiments the ground stud and the composite structure engage one another in a transition fit.

Abstract: Method and system for installing a ground stud on composite material. The method includes securing the ground stud to the composite material creating an electrical contact between the ground stud and composite material; and attaching a connective device to the ground stud for allowing current to flow from the connective device to the ground stud and then into the composite material. The system includes a ground stud with a conductive pin having, a first end for attaching the ground stud to a composite material such that the pin makes electrical contact with carbon fibers within the composite material, and a second threaded end for connection to a self locking nut securing the ground stud to a composite material; and a connective device with a conductive terminal which fits on top of the ground stud allowing current to flow from the connective device to the ground stud and the composite material.