An apparatus includes a first component comprising a carbon composite substrate. A high temperature coating is disposed on the surface of the carbon composite substrate. The high temperature coating includes a bond layer of a metal carbide on the surface of the substrate. The apparatus includes a second component, and braze material joining the surface of the first component to the second component. In some examples, a brake assembly may include a rotor having a surface configured to interface with another component of the brake assembly. The brake assembly includes an insert joined to the surface of the rotor without a mechanical fastener, and the insert defines a tough mechanical contact surface configured to protect the rotor.