Patent Publication Number: US-2015060287-A1

Title: Fluid Conditioning &amp; Ionizing System

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     This invention relates generally to conditioning a conductive fluid with an ionizing system. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     There are many systems for conditioning a conductive fluid with an ionizing system. The conductive fluid can be of many different types, such as water or oil. Examples of such ionizing systems are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,059,296 and 5,085,753, as well as U.S. Design Pat. Nos. D318,091 and D318,094, the contents of each of which are incorporated by reference as though fully set forth herein. These systems involve removing organic material from water so that it is useful for a particular purpose, such as drinking and swimming. More information regarding the removal of organic material from a fluid can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,925,205, 3,926,802, 3,948,632, 4,098,602, 4,199,451 4,282,104, 5,059,296, 5,085,753, 5,332,511, 5,364,512, 5,373,025, 5,541,150, 6,387,415 and 6,824,794, as well as in International Application No. PCT/US2005/033064. 
     A typical ionizing system, such as the water purifiers of U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,059,296 and 5,085,753, includes an anode and cathode carried by a buoyant housing, wherein the anode and cathode extend through the conductive fluid. The anode is fastened to the buoyant housing by using a fastener, and the cathode is spaced apart from the anode. The material of the anode can be of many different types, such as copper, brass, nickel, silver and/or stainless steel, as well as alloys thereof. The cathode can be of many different types. In the embodiments of U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,059,296 and 5,085,753, the cathode is a spring. 
     The anode and cathode are extended through the conductive fluid. Ions are released by the anode into the conductive fluid in response to establishing a potential difference between the anode (+) and cathode (−). The released ions condition the conductive fluid, such as by preventing the growth of algae or bacteria. 
     As can be appreciated, the dimensions of the anode decrease in response to releasing ions into the conductive fluid. Further, corrosion of the anode, in response to being ionized, makes it more difficult to unfasten the fastener from the anode. It is desirable to be able to unfasten the fastener from the anode so the anode can be replaced. Hence, it is useful to include a material with the ionizing system which experiences less corrosion, so the anode experiences a longer life so the anode has to be replaced less often. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention is directed to an ionizing system which includes a material which experiences less corrosion in response to a current flow therethrough in the presence of a fluid, such as water. The invention will be best understood from the following description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       It should be noted that like reference characters are used throughout the several views of the drawings. 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic view of an embodiment of an electrode assembly. 
         FIGS. 2   a  and  2   b  are side and cut-away side views, respectively, of one embodiment of the electrode assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 2   c  is a cross-sectional view of the electrode assembly of  FIG. 2   a  taken along a cut-line  2   c - 2   c,  wherein the cross-sectional shape of the electrode assembly is circular. 
         FIG. 2   d  is a cross-sectional view of the electrode assembly of  FIG. 2   a  taken along the cut-line  2   c - 2   c,  wherein the cross-sectional shape of the electrode assembly is elliptical. 
         FIG. 2   e  is a cross-sectional view of the electrode assembly of  FIG. 2   a  taken along the cut-line  2   c - 2   c,  wherein the cross-sectional shape of the electrode assembly is square. 
         FIG. 2   f  is a cross-sectional view of the electrode assembly of  FIG. 2   a  taken along the cut-line  2   c - 2   c,  wherein the cross-sectional shape of the electrode assembly is rectangular. 
         FIG. 2   g  is a cross-sectional view of the electrode assembly of  FIG. 2   a  taken along the cut-line  2   c - 2   c,  wherein the cross-sectional shape of the electrode assembly is triangular. 
         FIGS. 3   a  and  3   b  are opposed perspective views of an electrode body of the electrode assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3   c  is a side view of an electrically conductive fastener of the electrode assemblies of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIGS. 4   a  and  4   b  are side and cut-away side views, respectively, of the electrode assembly of  FIG. 1 , which includes an insulative bushing. 
         FIG. 5   a  is a perspective view of the insulative bushing of  FIGS. 4   a  and  4   b.    
         FIG. 5   b  is an end view of the insulative bushing of  FIGS. 4   a  and  4   b.    
         FIG. 5   c  is cut-away side view of the insulative bushing of  FIGS. 4   a  and  4   b.    
         FIGS. 6   a  and  6   b  are side and cut-away side views, respectively, of the electrode assembly of  FIGS. 4   a  and  4   b , which includes an insulative fastener. 
         FIGS. 7   a  and  7   b  are front and side views, respectively, of the insulative fastener of  FIGS. 6   a  and  6   b.    
         FIGS. 7   c  and  7   d  are top and bottom views, respectively, of the insulative fastener of  FIGS. 6   a  and  6   b.    
         FIGS. 8   a  and  8   b  are cut-away side views of different embodiments of electrode assemblies. 
         FIG. 9   a  is a partial cut-away side view of a strainer assembly, which includes the electrode assembly of  FIGS. 6   a  and  6   b.    
         FIG. 9   b  is a perspective view of a coil of the strainer assembly of  FIG. 9   a.    
         FIG. 9   c  is a perspective view of a strainer basket of the strainer assembly of  FIG. 9   a.    
         FIGS. 9   d  and  9   e  are side perspective and bottom perspective views, respectively, of the coil of  FIG. 9   b.    
         FIG. 9   f  is a perspective view of a clamp included with the strainer assembly of  FIG. 9   a.    
         FIGS. 9   g  and  9   h  are front views of the clamp of  FIG. 9   f  in uncrimped and crimped conditions, respectively. 
         FIG. 10  is a schematic diagram of an ionization circuit, which includes the electrode assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIGS. 11   a  and  11   b  are perspective and side views, respectively, of one embodiment of a purifier system. 
         FIG. 11   c  is a cut-away perspective view of a purifier system housing of purifier system taken along a cut-line  11   c - 11   c  of  FIG. 11   a.    
         FIGS. 11   d  and  11   e  are cut-away perspective and side views, respectively, of purifier system taken along a cut-line  11   d - 11   d  of  FIG. 11   a.    
         FIG. 11   f  is a top view of a portion of the purifier system of  FIGS. 11   a  and  11   b.    
         FIGS. 11   g  and  11   h  are perspective and side views, respectively, of the portion of the purifier system of  FIG. 11   f.    
         FIGS. 11   i  and  11   j  are perspective and side views, respectively, of the portion of the purifier system of  FIG. 11   f  with the conductive coil of  FIG. 9   b.    
         FIG. 11   k  is a side perspective view of the purifier system of  FIGS. 11   a  and  11   b  with the strainer basket removed. 
         FIG. 11   l  is a top view of one embodiment of a solar panel array, which can be included with the purifier system of  FIGS. 11   a  and  11   b.    
         FIGS. 11   m  and  11   n  are top and bottom perspective views, respectively, of the solar panel array of  FIG. 11   l.    
         FIG. 12  is a schematic diagram of an ionization circuit, which includes the electrode assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       FIG. 1  is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an electrode assembly  140 . In this embodiment, electrode assembly  140  includes an anode  155  and cathode  156  spaced apart from each other, wherein anode  155  includes an electrode body  141 . Electrode assembly  140  includes a conductive fastener  150  engaged with electrode body  141  proximate to a region  182 . Region  182  includes interfaces  181  and  183 , which are established between the engagement of fastener  150  and electrode body  141 . In particular, the outer periphery of fastener  150  is engaged with the inner periphery of electrode body  141 , so that interfaces  181  and  183  are adjacent to a portion of the outer periphery of fastener  150  and a portion of the inner periphery of electrode body  141 . In some embodiments, the distal end of fastener  150  does not engage electrode body  141  so that interface  183  is established and interface  181  is not established. In these embodiments, an electrical current I flows through interface  183  and the electrical current I does not flow through interface  181 . 
     It should be noted that electrically conductive fastener  150  typically includes threads so that it is a threaded fastener. In these threaded fastener embodiments, interface  183  corresponds to a threaded interface. In other embodiments, electrically conductive fastener  150  is a non-threaded fastener, such as a pin, so that interface  183  corresponds to a non-threaded interface. In some embodiments, electrically conductive fastener  150  includes an outer coating layer, which is corrosion resistant. As discussed in more detail below, the outer coating layer can include many different types of materials, such as titanium, platinum, gold and silver. Fastener  150  is repeatably moveable between fastened and unfastened conditions with electrode body  141 . 
     The outer coating layer is positioned adjacent to the interface between fastener  150  and electrode body  141 . Hence, interfaces  181  and  183  are titanium interfaces when the outer coating layer includes titanium. 
     In this embodiment, anode  155  and cathode  156  are spaced apart from each other so that the electrical current I can flow between them. In particular, conductive fastener  150  and electrode body  141  are spaced apart from cathode  156 . In this embodiment, the electrical current I flows through the portions of fastener  150  and electrode body  141  that are engaged together proximate to region  182 . In particular, the electrical current I flows through interfaces  181  and  183 . 
     The electrical current I flows between fastener  150  and electrode body  141  in response to establishing a potential difference between anode  155  and cathode  156 . Further, the electrical current I flows between electrode body  141  and cathode  156  in response to establishing the potential difference between anode  155  and cathode  156 . The potential difference can be established in many different ways, such as by providing a potential V 1  to fastener  150  and a potential V 2  to cathode  156 , wherein the potential difference is the difference between potentials V 1  and V 2 . The electrical current I increases and decreases in response to increasing and decreasing, respectively, the potential difference. 
     It should be noted that electrode assembly  140  is immersed in a conductive fluid during operation. In particular, anode  155  and cathode  156  are in contact with the conductive fluid. Portions of fastener  150  and electrode body  141  are in contact with the conductive fluid, so that the electrical current I flows through the conductive fluid between anode  155  and cathode  156 . The conductive fluid can be of many different types, such as water and/or oil. 
     It should also be noted that the potential difference can have positive and negative voltage values. For example, in some situations, potential V 1  is greater than potential V 2  so that anode  155  is positive and cathode  156  is negative. Ions are released by anode  155  into the conductive fluid in response to potential V 1  being greater than potential V 2 . 
     In other situations, potential V 1  is less than potential V 2  so that anode  155  is negative and cathode  156  is positive. Ions are restricted from being released by anode  155  into the conductive fluid in response to potential V 1  being less than potential V 2 . It is useful to have potential V 1  be less than potential V 2  to clean anode  155 . 
     Electrode body  141  can include many different types of conductive materials, such as stainless steel, titanium, copper and silver, nickel, or alloys thereof. In some embodiments, electrode body  141  includes an alloy of a conductive material, such as an alloy of steel, stainless steel, titanium, copper and/or silver. There are many different types of stainless steel that can be included in electrode body  141 , such as Type 306 Stainless Steel and Type 316 Stainless Steel. The types of stainless steel are currently graded by SAE International. More information regarding conductive materials of electrode body  141  can be found in the above-identified U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,059,296 and 5,085,753. 
     In some embodiments, electrode body  141  includes an alloy of conductive material, such as an alloy of copper and silver. Further, as mentioned above, the material of electrode body  141  is ionized in response to flowing the electrical current I therethrough. It should be noted that the corrosion rate of the material of electrode body  141  increases proximate to region  182 . The corrosion rate of the material of electrode body  141  increases proximate to region  182  because fastener  150  and electrode body  141  are engaged together proximate to region  182 . 
     Ions are released by  155  anode into the conductive fluid in response to establishing a potential difference between anode  155  and cathode  156 . The released ions condition the conductive fluid, such as by preventing the growth of algae or bacteria. It is desirable to condition the conductive fluid for reasons discussed in more detail above. The conditioning process involves ionizing anode  155  into the conductive fluid. More information regarding conditioning the fluid through ionization is provided in some of the above-identified patents and patent applications. 
     It should be noted that the material of electrode body  141  is ionized in response to a positive electrical current I flowing therethrough. The material of electrode body  141  is ionized so that portions of it are removed from electrode body  141  and become part of the fluid solution. The removal of material is often referred to as corrosion, and the rate at which the material is removed is often referred to as the corrosion rate. As can be appreciated, the dimensions of electrode body  141  decrease in response to its material being ionized. Hence, electrode body  141  is sometimes referred to as a sacrificial electrode. Electrode body  141  is normally removed from electrode assembly  140  and replaced with a new electrode when depleted. 
     The material of conductive fastener  150  can be ionized in response to flowing the electrical current I therethrough, with a conductive fluid present, such as water. The material of conductive fastener  150  can be ionized so that portions of it are removed from conductive fastener  150  thereby reducing the fastener mass and dimension. As can be appreciated, the dimensions of conductive fastener  150  decrease in response to its material being ionized. 
     In this embodiment, fastener  150  includes a material that is less susceptible to corrosion. In some embodiments, fastener  150  includes a material that is less susceptible to corrosion than steel. In some embodiments, fastener  150  includes a material that is less susceptible to corrosion than brass. 
     In this embodiment, conductive fastener  150  includes titanium. In some embodiments, electrically conductive fastener  150  includes a titanium alloy. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) provides technical standards for different compositions of titanium and titanium alloys in an annularly published book entitled “Annual Book of ASTM Standards”. For titanium, there are currently thirty-eight (38) grades of titanium. Material of Grades 1-4 include unalloyed titanium, which are useful for corrosion resistant applications. Several of the other material grades, such as Grades 5, 7, 7H, 11, 16 and 17, are enhanced corrosion resistance materials which include titanium and palladium. The amount of palladium of the material can be of many different values. In some embodiments, the material of conductive fastener  150  includes an amount of palladium between 0.1% to about 0.25%, and the remainder of the material is titanium. In some embodiments, the material of conductive fastener  150  includes an amount of palladium between 0.03% to 0.1%, and the remainder of the material is titanium. 
     In some embodiments, other material, such as aluminum, vanadium, iron, steel, stainless steel and/or oxygen is included with the material of electrically conductive fastener  150 . The material of electrically conductive fastener  150  can include many different types of stainless steel, such as Type 306 Stainless Steel and Type 316 Stainless Steel. The amount of these other materials can have many different values. In some embodiments, the material of electrically conductive fastener  150  includes less than 6.1% aluminum, and the remainder of the material is titanium. In some embodiments, the material of conductive fastener  150  includes less than 4.1% vanadium, and the remainder of the material is titanium. In some embodiments, the material of conductive fastener  150  includes less than 0.3% iron, and the remainder of the material is titanium. In some embodiments, the material of conductive fastener  150  includes less than 0.3% oxygen, and the remainder of the material is titanium. In some embodiments, the material of conductive fastener  150  includes less than 6.1% aluminum, less than 4% vanadium, less than 0.3% iron and less than 0.3% oxygen, and the remainder of the material is titanium. In any of the embodiments, the material of conductive fastener  150  can include palladium, if desired. 
     It should be noted that it is desirable to have the electrical current I flow through the metal of conductive fastener  150 . In some embodiments, the titanium is positioned proximate to the outer periphery of conductive fastener  150 . It is desirable to have the titanium positioned proximate to the outer periphery of conductive fastener  150  because the electrical current I flows proximate to the periphery of conductive fastener  150 . 
     The amount of titanium of conductive fastener  150  can be of many different values. In some embodiments, conductive fastener  150  includes between ninety-five percent (95%) titanium to one-hundred percent (100%) titanium. In some embodiments, conductive fastener  150  includes between ninety-three percent (93%) titanium to one-hundred percent (100%) titanium. In some embodiments, conductive fastener  150  includes between ninety percent (90%) titanium to one-hundred percent (100%) titanium. In some embodiments, conductive fastener  150  includes between eighty-five percent (85%) titanium to one-hundred percent (100%) titanium. In some embodiments, conductive fastener  150  includes more than fifty percent (50%) titanium. 
     In general, the amount of titanium of conductive fastener  150  is chosen to reduce the corrosion of the material of fastener  150  by a desired amount. The amount of titanium of conductive fastener  150  depends on many different factors, such as the type of fluid, the value of the electrical current I and the potential difference between V 1  and V 2 . In general, the amount of titanium chosen increases in response to increasing the electrical current I and the potential difference between V 1  and V 2 . Further, the amount of titanium chosen decreases in response to decreasing the electrical current I and the potential difference between V 1  and V 2 . The amount of titanium of fastener  150  can also depend on the material of electrode body  141 , as will be discussed in more detail presently. 
     In some embodiments, fastener  150  is a titanium fastener. In some embodiments, fastener  150  consists of titanium and, in other embodiments, fastener  150  consists essentially of titanium. In some embodiments, fastener  150  includes titanium of Grades 1, 2, 3 or 4 of the ASTM standards. In another example, fastener  150  includes more than 95% titanium. 
     In other embodiments, fastener  150  includes an outer titanium coating layer. The outer titanium coating layer is typically formed on conductive fastener shaft  152 . The outer titanium coating layer can be formed in many different ways, such as by using electroplating. In one embodiment, conductive fastener shaft  152  includes stainless steel, and the outer titanium coating layer is formed thereon. In another embodiment, conductive fastener shaft  152  includes Type 306 Stainless Steel, and the outer titanium coating layer is formed thereon. In another embodiment, conductive fastener shaft  152  includes Type 316 Stainless Steel, and the outer titanium coating layer is formed thereon. In some embodiments, conductive fastener shaft  152  includes a non-electrically conductive ceramic material, and the outer titanium coating layer is formed thereon. 
     In some embodiments, the outer titanium coating layer consists of titanium and, in other embodiments, the outer titanium coating layer consists essentially of titanium. In some embodiments, the outer titanium coating layer includes titanium of Grades 1, 2, 3 or 4 of the ASTM standards. In another example, the outer titanium coating layer includes more than 95% titanium. 
     In some embodiments, fastener  150  is a platinum fastener. In some embodiments, fastener  150  consists of platinum and, in other embodiments, fastener  150  consists essentially of platinum. In one example, fastener  150  includes platinum of Grades 99.5, 99.90, 99.95, 99.99 and/or 99.9995 of the ASTM standards. In another example, fastener  150  includes more than 95% platinum. 
     In other embodiments, fastener  150  includes an outer platinum coating layer. The outer platinum coating layer is typically formed on conductive fastener shaft  152 . The outer platinum coating layer can be formed in many different ways, such as by using electroplating. In one embodiment, conductive fastener shaft  152  includes stainless steel, and the outer platinum coating layer is formed thereon. In another embodiment, conductive fastener shaft  152  includes Type 306 Stainless Steel, and the outer platinum coating layer is formed thereon. In another embodiment, conductive fastener shaft  152  includes Type 316 Stainless Steel, and the outer platinum coating layer is formed thereon. 
     In some embodiments, the outer platinum coating layer consists of platinum and, in other embodiments, the outer platinum coating layer consists essentially of platinum. In some embodiments, the outer platinum coating layer includes inure than 95% platinum. 
     In some embodiments, fastener  150  is a gold fastener. In some embodiments, fastener  150  consists of gold and, in other embodiments, fastener  150  consists essentially of gold. In one example, fastener  150  includes gold of Grades 99.5, 99.90, 99.95, 99.99 and/or 99.9995 of the ASTM standards. In another example, fastener  150  includes more than 95% gold. 
     In other embodiments, fastener  150  includes an outer gold coating layer. The outer gold coating layer is typically formed on conductive fastener shaft  152 . The outer gold coating layer can be formed in many different ways, such as by using electroplating. In one embodiment, conductive fastener shaft  152  includes stainless steel, and the outer gold coating layer is formed thereon. In another embodiment, conductive fastener shaft  152  includes Type 306 Stainless Steel, and the outer gold coating layer is formed thereon. In another embodiment, conductive fastener shaft  152  includes Type 316 Stainless Steel, and the outer gold coating layer is formed thereon. 
     In some embodiments, the outer gold coating layer consists of gold and, in other embodiments, the outer gold coating layer consists essentially of gold. In some embodiments, the outer gold coating layer includes more than 95% gold. 
     In some embodiments, fastener  150  is a silver fastener. In some embodiments, fastener  150  consists of silver and, in other embodiments, fastener  150  consists essentially of silver. In one example, fastener  150  includes silver of Grades 99.5, 99.90, 99.95, 99.99 and/or 99.9995 of the ASTM standards. In another example, fastener  150  includes more than 95% silver. 
     In other embodiments, fastener  150  includes an outer silver coating layer. The outer silver coating layer is typically formed on conductive fastener shaft  152 . The outer silver coating layer can be formed in many different ways, such as by using electroplating. In one embodiment, conductive fastener shaft  152  includes stainless steel, and the outer silver coating layer is formed thereon. In another embodiment, conductive fastener shaft  152  includes Type 306 Stainless Steel, and the outer silver coating layer is formed thereon. In another embodiment, conductive fastener shaft  152  includes Type 316 Stainless Steel, and the outer silver coating layer is formed thereon. 
     In some embodiments, the outer silver coating layer consists of silver and, in other embodiments, the outer silver coating layer consists essentially of silver. In some embodiments, the outer silver coating layer includes more than 95% silver. 
     It should be noted that electrode assembly  140  can be used in many different systems to condition a conductive fluid. For example, electrode assembly  140  can be included with a plumbing system to condition waste water. Further, electrode assembly  140  can be included with a water drinking system to condition drinking water. 
       FIGS. 2   a  and  2   b  are side and cut-away side views, respectively, of an embodiment of an electrode assembly  140   d,  which corresponds to electrode assembly  140  of  FIG. 1 . In this embodiment, electrode assembly  140   d  includes an electrode body  141  and conductive fastener  150 , wherein conductive fastener  150  extends through an electrode opening  142   a  of electrode body  141 , as shown in  FIG. 2   b . Electrode body  141  can have many different shapes. In this embodiment, electrode body  141  is a generally cylindrical member. 
       FIG. 2   c  is a cross-sectional view of electrode assembly  140   d  of  FIG. 2   a  taken along a cut-line  2   c - 2   c,  wherein the cross-sectional shape of electrode body  141  is circular. 
       FIG. 2   d  is a cross-sectional view of electrode assembly  140   d  of  FIG. 2   a  taken along the cut-line  2   c - 2   c,  wherein the cross-sectional shape of electrode body  141  is elliptical. 
       FIG. 2   e  is a cross-sectional view of electrode assembly  140   d  of  FIG. 2   a  taken along the cut-line  2   c - 2   c,  wherein the cross-sectional shape of electrode body  141  is square. 
       FIG. 2   f  is a cross-sectional view of electrode assembly  140   d  of  FIG. 2   a  taken along the cut-line  2   c - 2   c,  wherein the cross-sectional shape of electrode body  141  is rectangular. 
       FIG. 2   g  is a cross-sectional view of electrode assembly  140   d  of  FIG. 2   a  taken along the cut-line  2   c - 2   c,  wherein the cross-sectional shape of electrode body  141  is triangular. It should be noted that any of the cross-sectional shapes of electrode body  141  of  FIGS. 2   c - 2   g  can be used with the other embodiments of electrode assemblies discussed herein. 
       FIGS. 3   a  and  3   b  are opposed perspective views of electrode body  141 , which show electrode opening  142   a  extending through one shortened end of electrode body  141 . In some embodiments, electrode opening  142   a  can extend longitudinally through electrode body  141  between opposed shortened ends. In the embodiment of  FIGS. 6   a  and  6   b , electrode body  141  includes openings  142   a  and  142   b,  which extend through opposed shortened ends. It should be noted that a lengthened side of electrode body  141  extends between the opposed shortened ends of electrode body  141 . In this embodiment, the lengthened side of electrode body  141  is an annular side because it extends annularly about the outer periphery of electrode body  141 . 
       FIG. 3   c  is a perspective view of conductive fastener  150 . In this embodiment, conductive fastener  150  includes a conductive fastener head  151  and conductive fastener shaft  152 , wherein conductive fastener shaft  152  extends away from conductive fastener head  151  and through electrode opening  142   a.  Conductive fastener head  151  engages electrode body  141  proximate to electrode opening  142   a.  Conductive fastener shaft  152  establishes interfaces  181  and  183 , which are discussed in more detail above. It should be noted that, in this embodiment, conductive fastener shaft  152  includes threads so that it is a threaded shaft. Hence, conductive fastener shaft  152  is threadingly engaged with electrode body  141 . As mentioned above, the electrical current I flows through interfaces  181  and  183 . 
     In this embodiment, fastener  150  and electrode body  141  are engaged together so that they are in communication with each other and a signal can flow between them. The signal flows between fastener  150  and electrode body  141  in response to establishing a potential difference between fastener  150  and electrode body  141 . In this embodiment, the signal flows through the portions of fastener  150  and electrode body  141  that are engaged together proximate to region  182 . In particular, the signal flows through interfaces  181  and  183 . 
     Electrode assembly  140   d  is typically immersed in a fluid, as described in more detail above. Portions of fastener  150  and electrode body  141  are in contact with the fluid so that the electrical current I flows through the fluid and the portions of fastener  150  and electrode body  141  that are engaged together proximate to region  182 . Further, portions of fastener  150  and/or electrode body  141  are in contact with the fluid so that the electrical current I flows through the fluid and between fastener  150  and electrode body  141  and interfaces  181  and  183 . 
     Electrode body  141  can include many different types of conductive materials, such those mentioned in more detail above. In some embodiments, electrode body  141  includes an alloy of conductive material, such as an alloy of copper and silver. The material of electrode body  141  is ionized in response to flowing the electrical current I therethrough. It should be noted that the corrosion rate of the material of electrode body  141  increases proximate to region  182 . The corrosion rate of the material of electrode body  141  increases proximate to region  182  because fastener  150  and electrode body  141  are engaged together proximate to region  182  and fastener  150  and electrode body  141  include dissimilar material. 
     The materials of fastener  150  and electrode body  141  are corroded in response to the electrical current I flowing therethrough. Hence, fastener  150  includes a material that is less susceptible to corrosion, such as titanium and a titanium alloy. As mentioned above, it is desirable to have the electrical current I flow through the titanium because the material of fastener  150  experiences less ionization in response to the electrical current I flowing through the titanium. It is desirable to have the titanium be positioned proximate to the outer periphery of conductive fastener  150  because the electrical current I flows proximate to the periphery of conductive fastener  150 . It is desirable to have the titanium be positioned proximate region  182  because region  182  includes interfaces  181  and  183 . 
     In general, the amount of titanium of fastener  150  is chosen to reduce the corrosion of the material of fastener  150  proximate to region  182  by a desired amount. The amount of titanium of fastener  150  depends on many different factors, such as those discussed in more detail above. In this embodiment, the amount of titanium chosen depends on the dimensions of interfaces  181  and  183 . The amount of titanium chosen increases and decreases in response to increasing and decreasing, respectively, the dimension of interfaces  181  and  183 . 
     Electrode body  141  can include many different types of conductive materials, such as copper and silver. In some embodiments, electrode body  141  includes an alloy of conductive material, such as an alloy of copper and silver. Hence, in some embodiments, interfaces  181  and  183  are titanium-copper interfaces when fastener  150  includes titanium and electrode body  141  includes copper. In some embodiments, interfaces  181  and  183  are titanium-silver interface when fastener  150  includes titanium and electrode body  141  includes silver. In some embodiments, region  182  includes titanium, copper and silver proximate to region  182  when fastener  150  includes titanium and electrode body  141  includes an alloy of copper and silver. 
       FIGS. 4   a  and  4   b  are side and cut-away side views, respectively, of an embodiment of an electrode assembly  140   e.  In this embodiment, electrode assembly  140   d  includes electrode body  141 , electrically conductive fastener  150  and a fluidically sealing and electrically insulative bushing  160 , wherein insulative bushing  160  includes an electrically insulative bushing body  161  with an insulative bushing channel  162  extending therethrough. It should be noted that electrode assembly  140   d  can include a coated fastener, if desired, several types of which are discussed in more detail above. Insulative bushing body  161  and channel  162  are shown in  FIGS. 5   a,    5   b  and  5   c,  and opening  142   a  is shown in  FIG. 2   b . Conductive fastener  150  extends through insulative bushing channel  162  and electrode opening  142   a  of electrode body  141 . In this embodiment, conductive fastener head  151  is spaced from electrode opening  142   a  by insulative bushing body  161 . Hence, conductive fastener head  151  is not engaged with electrode body  141 . 
     Fastener  150  fastens electrically insulative bushing  160  to electrode body  141  to form a seal therebetween. In this way, electrically insulative bushing  160  restricts the ability of fluid to flow to the portion of conductive fastener  150  proximate to opening  142   a.  Further, electrically insulative bushing  160  is positioned in sealing engagement with conductive fastener head  152 , electrically conductive fastener  150  and electrode body  141  to restrict the ability of the conductive fluid to flow to flow to conductive fastener shaft  152 . 
     The materials of fastener  150  and electrode body  141  are discussed in more detail above. Insulative bushing  160  can include many different types of insulative materials, such as a polymer. There are many different types of polymers that can be included with insulative bushing  160 , such as rubber and plastic. The material of insulative bushing  160  is less conductive than the material of conductive fastener  150 . Further, the material of insulative bushing  160  is less conductive than the material of electrode body  141 . Hence, the electrical current I does not flow through the material of insulative bushing  160 . However, the electrical current I does flow through insulative bushing channel  162  because conductive fastener  150  extends therethrough. 
       FIG. 5   a  is a perspective view of insulative bushing  160 ,  FIG. 5   b  is an end view of insulative bushing  160 , and  FIG. 5   c  is cut-away side view of insulative bushing  160 . Insulative bushing  160  can have many different shapes. In this embodiment, insulative bushing  160  is a generally cylindrical member having an insulative bushing body  161 , with insulative bushing channel  162  extending therethrough. Insulative bushing channel  162  extends through opposed ends of insulative bushing body  161 , as shown in  FIG. 5   c , so that conductive fastener  150  can extend through opposed ends of insulative bushing body  161 . 
     In this embodiment, insulative bushing channel  162  is aligned with electrode opening  142   a,  and conductive fastener  150  extends through insulative bushing channel  162  and electrode opening  142   a.  In particular, conductive fastener shaft  152  extends through insulative bushing channel  162  and electrode opening  142   a.    
     In this embodiment, fastener  150  and electrode body  141  are engaged together so that they are in communication with each other and a signal can flow between them. The signal flows between fastener  150  and electrode body  141  in response to establishing a potential difference between fastener  150  and electrode body  141 . In this embodiment, the signal flows through the portions of fastener  150  and electrode body  141  that are engaged together proximate to region  182 . In particular, the signal flows through interfaces  181  and  183 . The electrical current I corresponds to the signal so that the electrical current I flows through interfaces  181  and  183 . It should be noted that interfaces  181  and  183  are established away from insulative bushing channel  162 . Interfaces  181  and  183  are established away from insulative bushing channel  162  because they are established outside of insulative bushing body  161 . 
     Electrode assembly  140   e  is typically immersed in a fluid, as described in more detail above. Portions of fastener  150  and electrode body  141  are in contact with the fluid so that the electrical current I flows through the fluid and the portions of fastener  150  and electrode body  141  that are engaged together proximate to region  182 . Further, portions of fastener  150  and electrode body  141  are in contact with the fluid so that the electrical current I flows through the fluid and between fastener  150  and electrode body  141  and interfaces  181  and  183 . It should be noted that the portion of fastener  150 , which extends through insulative bushing  160 , is not exposed to the fluid. In particular, the portion of conductive fastener shaft  152 , which extends through insulative bushing channel  162 , is not exposed to the fluid. Insulative bushing  160  reduces the corrosion rate of the portion of fastener  150  which extends through insulative bushing  160 . 
       FIGS. 6   a  and  6   b  are side and cut-away side views, respectively, of an embodiment of an electrode assembly  140   f.  In this embodiment, electrode assembly  140   d  includes electrode body  141 , electrically conductive fastener  150 , an insulative bushing  160  and an insulative fastener  170 . In this embodiment, conductive fastener  150  extends through insulative bushing channel  162  and electrode opening  142   a  of electrode body  141 . Conductive fastener  150  fastens insulative bushing body  161  to electrode body  141 . It should be noted that electrode assembly  140   f  can include electrically a coated fastener, if desired. 
     Further, insulative fastener  170  extends through an electrode opening  142   b,  wherein electrode openings  142   a  and  142   b  are opposed to each other. Insulative fastener  170  is shown in  FIGS. 7   a ,  7   b ,  7   c  and  7   d , and will be discussed in more detail with these drawings. Insulative fastener  170  is also shown in  FIGS. 8   a ,  b ,  9   a  and  11   b.    
     In this embodiment, electrode openings  142   a  and  142   b  have widths W 1  and W 2 , respectively. Widths W 1  and W 2  correspond to the diameters of corresponding electrodes openings  142   a  and  142   b.  In this embodiment, width W 2  is larger than width W 1  so that electrode opening  142   b  has a larger diameter than electrode opening  142   a.  It is useful to have width W 2  be larger than width W 1  to reduce the rate of corrosion experienced by electrode body  141 . In some embodiments, widths W 1  and W 2  have the same values so that electrode openings  142   a  and  142   b  have the same diameters. In some embodiments, width W 1  is larger than width W s  so that electrode opening  142   a  has a larger diameter than electrode opening  142   b.  In general, widths W 1  and W 2  have different diameter values so that insulative fastener  170  cannot be threadingly engaged with opening  142   a  and electrically conductive fastener  150  cannot be threadingly engaged with opening  142   b.    
     The materials of fastener  150 , electrode body  141  and insulative bushing  160  are discussed in more detail above. Insulative fastener  170  can include many different types of insulative materials, such as a polymer. There are many different types of polymers that can be included with insulative fastener  170 , such as rubber and plastic. The material of insulative fastener  170  is less conductive than the material of conductive fastener  150 . Further, the material of fastener  170  is less conductive than the material of electrode body  141 . Hence, the electrical current I does not flow through the material of insulative fastener  170 . 
       FIGS. 7   a  and  7   b  are front and side views, respectively, of insulative fastener  170 .  FIGS. 7   c  and  7   d  are top and bottom views, respectively, of insulative fastener  170 . In this embodiment, insulative fastener  170  includes an insulative fastener base  171 , and an insulative fastener shaft  172  and insulative fastener grip  173  extending from opposed sides. Insulative fastener shaft  172  is a threaded shaft which is threadingly engaged with electrode body  141 , as shown in  FIGS. 6   a  and  6   b . Insulative fastener grip  173  includes an insulative fastener grip opening  174 . As indicated by an indication arrow  175  in  FIG. 7   a , some embodiments of insulative fastener  170  includes a tapered end  176  to facilitate its ability to form a seal with electrode body  141 . Tapered end  176  also restricts the ability of insulative fastener to become unthreaded from electrode opening  142   b,  which is shown in  FIGS. 8   a  and  8   b.    
       FIG. 8   a  is a cut-away side view of electrode assembly  140   f  carried by a portion of a support substrate, which is embodied as a housing central portion  101   c . Housing central portion  101   c  will be discussed in more detail with  FIGS. 11   c ,  11   d  and  11   e . It should be noted that electrode assembly  140   f  can be replaced with the other electrode assemblies disclosed herein. In this embodiment, electrode assembly  140   f  is shown for illustrative purposes. 
     In this embodiment, housing central portion  101   c  includes a housing central portion opening  179  ( FIGS. 11   c ,  11   d  and  11   e ) through which fastener  150  extends. In particular, fastener shaft  152  extends through housing central portion opening  179  so that fastener head  151  and insulative bushing  160  are on opposed sides of housing central portion  101   c . In this way, housing central portion  101   c  is coupled between fastener head  151  and insulative bushing  160 , and electrode assembly  140   f  is coupled to housing central portion  101   c . As mentioned in more detail above with  FIGS. 6   a  and  6   b , insulative fastener  170  is fastened to electrode body  141 . Hence, electrode body  141  extends between insulative fastener  170  and insulative bushing body  161 . It should be noted that circuit board assembly  107  of  FIG. 8   a  can include a coated fastener, if desired. 
       FIG. 8   b  is a cut-away side view of another embodiment of electrode assembly  140   f  carried by housing central portion  101   c,  as discussed in more detail above with  FIG. 8   a . In this embodiment, an electrical connector  178  is positioned proximate to housing central portion opening  179  and fastener  150  extends therethrough so that electrical connector  178  is fastened to housing central portion  101   c . A conductive line  167  is electrically connected to electrical connector  178  so that is it in electrical communication with fastener  150  through electrical connector  178 . Conductive line  167  can be of many different types, such as a wire sheathed in an outer plastic coating. Conductive line  167  and/or electrical connector  178  are also shown in  FIGS. 10 ,  11   i  and  11   j . It should be noted that circuit board assembly  107  of  FIG. 8   b  can include a coated fastener, if desired. 
     In this embodiment, fastener  150  extends through an electrically conductive washer  164 , which is positioned at the same side of housing central portion  101   c  as electrical connector  178 . A nut  165  is threadingly engaged with fastener  150  so that housing central portion  101   c  is held between nut  165  and washer  164 . Fastener  150  extends through insulative bushing body  161  and electrode body  141 , as described in more detail above with  FIG. 8   a.    
     In this embodiment, electrode body  141  is in communication with conductive line  167  and electrical connector  178  through fastener  150 . In this way, a potential V 1  applied to conductive line  167  is applied to conductive body  141 . The potential V 1  can be applied to conductive line  167  in many different ways, such as with a solar panel, as will be discussed in more detail below. 
     The electrical current I flows between conductive fastener shall  152  and conductive line  167  and electrical connector  178 . As discussed in more detail above with  FIGS. 6   a  and  6   b , conductive fastener  150  is coupled to electrode body  141  through insulative sleeve  161 . Hence, the electrical current I flows between electrode body  141  and electrical connector  178  and through conductive fastener shaft  152 . 
     As discussed in more detail above with  FIGS. 6   a  and  6   b , insulative fastener  170  is coupled to electrode body  141  at the shortened end opposed to conductive fastener  150 . In this embodiment, the electrical current I flows between electrode body  141 , electrical connector  178  and conductive fastener shaft  152 . However, insulative fastener  170  restricts the ability of the electrical current I to flow through the shortened end opposed to conductive fastener  150 . In particular, insulative fastener base  171  restricts the ability of the electrical current I to flow through the shortened end opposed to conductive fastener  150 . In this way, the amount of corrosion experienced by the distal end of electrode body  141  is reduced. 
     As mentioned above with the discussion of  FIGS. 3   a  and  3   b , electrode body  141  includes at lengthened side which extends between opposed shortened ends. The electrical current I flows through the lengthened side of electrode body  141  in response to insulative fastener  170  being coupled to the opposed shortened end of electrode body  141 , wherein the opposed shortened end of electrode body  141  is opposed to conductive fastener  150 . The electrical current I flows radially outwardly from electrode body  141  because, as discussed above, the lengthened side of electrode body  141  is an annular side. 
       FIG. 9   a  is a partial cut-away side view of a strainer assembly  169 , which includes electrode assembly  140   f  of  FIG. 8   b , a conductive coil  120 , as shown in  FIG. 9   b  and strainer basket  130 , as shown in  FIG. 9   c . It should be noted that electrode assembly  140   f  can be replaced with the other electrode assemblies disclosed herein. In this embodiment, strainer assembly  169  includes electrode assembly  140   f  of  FIG. 8   b  for illustrative purposes. It should be noted that the view of strainer basket  130  of  FIG. 9   a  is taken along a cut-line  9   b - 9   b  Of  FIG. 9   c , as discussed below. 
     In this embodiment, strainer assembly  169  includes conductive coil  120 , through which electrode assembly  140   f  extends. In particular, electrode body  141  and insulative bushing  160  extend through conductive coil  120 . Insulative bushing  160  restricts the ability of conductive fastener  150  and electrode body  141  to engage conductive coil  120 . Conductive coil  120  operates as a cathode, as discussed in more detail above with  FIG. 1 , wherein conductive coil  120  corresponds with cathode  156 . It should be noted that strainer assembly  169  extends through the conductive fluid during operation. However, conductive fastener  150  is not exposed to the conductive fluid during normal operation. It should also be noted that strainer assembly  169  can include a coated fastener, if desired. 
     Conductive coil  120  can have many different shapes. In this embodiment, conductive coil  120  has a conductive coil winding  121  which is helical in shape. Conductive coil winding  121  has a plurality of coil windings which are spaced apart from each other. It should be noted that the view of conductive coil  120  of  FIG. 9   a  is taken along a cut-line  9   a - 9   a  of  FIG. 9   b . It should be noted that conductive coil winding  121  can have many different cross-sectional shapes. In  FIG. 9   a , conductive coil winding  121  is shown as having an elliptical cross-sectional shape. However, as indicated by an indication arrow  136  in  FIG. 9   a , one or more of coils  121  can have a circular cross-sectional shape. In other embodiments, one or more of coils  121  can have a rectangular cross-sectional shape. Conductive coil  120  is electrically conductive so that current can flow therethrough. In general, conductive coil  120  includes a metal. 
     In this embodiment, a conductive line  168  is electrically connected to conductive coil  120  so that it is in electrical communication therewith. It should be noted that conductive line  168  is also shown in  FIGS. 10 ,  11   i ,  11   j  and  11   n . Conductive line  168  can be electrically connected to conductive coil  120  in many different ways, such as by soldering, welding and by using a conductive glue. There are many different types of welding that can be used, such as capacitive discharge welding and spot welding. 
     In this embodiment, conductive line  168  is connected to conductive coil winding  121  with a clamp  124 , as indicated in an indication arrow  125 . Clamp  124  operates as an electrical connector and is discussed in more detail with  FIGS. 9   f ,  9   g  and  9   h . Conductive line  168  can be of many different types, such as a wire  168   b  sheathed in an outer insulative coating  168   a,  as indicated in an indication arrow  125 . It should be noted that outer insulative coating  168   a  and wire  168   b  are also shown below in  FIG. 11   n . It should also be noted that conductive line  168  can be connected to conductive coil winding  121  in many other ways, such as by using spot welding. 
     In this embodiment, coil  120  is in communication with conductive line  168  so that a potential V 2  applied to conductive line  168  is applied to conductive coil  120 . The potential V 2  can be applied to conductive line  168  in many different ways, such as with a solar panel, as will be discussed in more detail below. 
       FIG. 9   d  is a side perspective view of a portion of conductive coil  120  in a region  122   a  of  FIG. 9   b . In this embodiment, conductive coil  120  includes adjacent coils, proximate to its upper portion, which are spaced apart by a distance D 1 . The upper portion of conductive coil  120  is positioned proximate to insulative bushing  160  in  FIG. 9   a . Further, in this embodiment, conductive coil  120  includes adjacent coils, away from its upper portion, which are spaced apart by a distance D 2 . 
       FIG. 9   e  is a side perspective view of a portion of conductive coil  120  in a region  122   b  of  FIG. 9   b . In this embodiment, conductive coil  120  includes adjacent coils, in region  122   b,  which are spaced apart by distance D 2 . 
       FIG. 9   f  is a perspective view of clamp  124  included with strainer assembly  169  of  FIG. 9   a , and  FIGS. 9   g  and  9   h  are front views of clamp  124  of  FIG. 9   f  in uncrimped and crimped conditions, respectively. In this embodiment, clamp  124  is an Oetiker-type clamp, examples of which can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,402,436, 4,451,955 and 7,434,440. In the Oetiker-type clamp, conductive coil winding  121  is extended through one portion of the clamp, and wire  168   b  is extended through another portion of the clamp, as shown in  FIG. 9   a . Clamp  124  is crimped ( FIG. 9   h ) so that clamp  124  holds wire  168   b  to conductive coil winding  121  and an electrical connection is established therebetween. In this way, clamp  124  operates as an electrical connector. 
     In this embodiment, electrode assembly  140   f  and conductive coil  120  are in communication with each other so that the signal can flow between them. In particular, conductive fastener  150  and electrode body  141  are coupled together, as described in more detail above, and electrode body  141  and conductive coil  120  are in communication with each other so that the signal can flow between them. The signal flows between electrode body  141  and conductive coil  120  in response to establishing a potential difference between electrode body  141  and conductive coil  120 . In particular, the signal flows between electrode body  141  and conductive coil  120  in response to establishing a potential difference between conductive fastener  150  and conductive coil  120 . The potential difference can be established in many different ways, such as providing potential V 1  to conductive line  167  and potential V 2  to conductive line  168 , wherein the potential difference is the difference between potentials V 1  and V 2 . As mentioned above, the potential difference can have positive and negative voltage values. Potentials V 1  and V 2  can be provided in many different ways, such as by using a solar panel. The electrical current I flows between electrode body  141  and conductive coil  120  in response to establishing the potential difference between conductive fastener  150  and conductive coil  120 . The electrical current I increases and decreases in response to increasing and decreasing, respectively, the potential difference. 
     It should be noted that electrode assembly  140   f  is immersed in a fluid during operation. In particular, portions of electrode assembly  140   f  and conductive cod  120  are in contact with the fluid. Portions of electrode assembly  140   f  and conductive coil  120  are in contact with the fluid so that the electrical current I flows through the fluid. Portions of electrode assembly  140   f  and conductive coil  120  are in contact with the fluid so that the electrical current I flows through the fluid and between electrode assembly  140   f  and conductive coil  120 . In this way, the fluid and the undesirable material of the fluid is ionized. 
     In this embodiment, strainer assembly  169  includes a strainer basket  130 , wherein electrode assembly  140   f  and conductive coil  120  extend through strainer basket  130 . In particular, conductive coil is positioned between electrode assembly  140   f  and strainer basket  130 . Strainer basket  130  restricts the ability of portions of the undesirable material of the fluid to flow to electrode assembly  140   f  and conductive coil  120 . The portions of the undesirable material of the fluid restricted from flowing to electrode assembly  140   f  and conductive coil  120  includes material of a predetermined size, as will be discussed in more detail below. It should be noted that strainer basket  130  typically includes insulative material, such as plastic and/or rubber. 
     It should also be noted that insulative fastener  170  couples strainer basket  130  to electrode assembly  140   f.  In particular, insulative fastener shaft  172  extends through annular basket end cap  131   a,  and insulative fastener base  171  engages strainer basket  130  so that strainer basket  130  is coupled to electrode body  141 . 
     Strainer basket  130  can have many different shapes. In this embodiment, strainer basket  130  includes annular basket end cap  131   a  and annular basket ribs  131   b ,  131   c ,  131   d  and  131   e , which are annular in shape and spaced apart from each other in a longitudinal direction. Annular basket end cap  131   a  is positioned proximate to insulative fastener  170  and annular basket rib  131   e  ( FIG. 9   a ) is positioned proximate to insulative bushing  160 . Further, annular basket rib  131   d  is positioned between annular basket ribs  131   e  and  131   c,  annular basket rib  131   c  is positioned between annular basket rib  131   b  and  131   d , annular basket rib  131   b  is positioned between annular basket end cap  131   a  and annular basket ribs  131   c.  Annular basket end cap  131   a  is positioned at an end of strainer basket  130  opposed to annular basket rib  131   e,  which is proximate to insulative fastener  170 . It should be noted that strainer basket  130  can include fewer or more annular basket ribs, and five annular basket ribs are shown in this embodiment for illustrative purposes. It should also be noted that the ribs of strainer basket  130  can have many different cross-sectional shapes. In  FIG. 9   a , ribs  131   a,    131   b,    131   c ,  131   d  and  131   e  are shown as having a circular cross-sectional shape. However, as indicated by an indication arrows  135  and  136  in  FIG. 9   a , one or more of the ribs can have a rectangular cross-sectional shape. 
     In this embodiment, strainer basket  130  includes longitudinal basket ribs  132   a ,  132   b,    132   c  and  112   d,  which are spaced apart from each other and extend in the longitudinal direction of strainer basket  130 . 
     Longitudinal basket ribs  132   a  and  132   c  are positioned opposed to each other, and longitudinal basket ribs  132   a  and  132   c  are positioned opposed to each other. Further, longitudinal basket ribs  132   a,    132   b,    132   c  and  132   d  extend through annular basket end cap  131   a  and annular basket ribs  131   b ,  131   c,    131   d  and  131   e.  It should be noted that strainer basket  130  can include fewer or more longitudinal basket ribs, and four longitudinal basket ribs are shown in this embodiment for illustrative purposes. 
     In this embodiment, strainer basket  130  includes a basket mesh  133 , which has a desired mesh size. The mesh size is chosen to restrict the flow of portions of the undesirable material of the fluid to flow to electrode assembly  140   f  and conductive coil  120 . The portions of the undesirable material of the fluid restricted from flowing to electrode assembly  140   f  and conductive coil  120  includes material of a predetermined size, wherein the predetermined size is larger than the mesh size. In this way, strainer basket  130  restricts the ability of portions of the undesirable material of the fluid to flow to electrode assembly  140   f  and conductive coil  120 . 
     In this embodiment, basket mesh  133  extends between annular basket end cap  131   a  and annular basket ribs  131   b ,  131   c,    131   d  and  131   e , as well as between longitudinal basket ribs  132   a,    132   b,    132   c  and  132   d.  In this way, annular basket end cap  131   a  and annular basket ribs  131   b,    131   c,    131   d  and  131   e  and longitudinal basket ribs  132   a,    132   b,    132   c  and  132   d  provide support to basket mesh  133 . 
       FIG. 10  is a schematic diagram of an ionization circuit  115   a,  which includes an electrode assembly. It should be noted that the schematic diagram of  FIG. 10  illustrates the connections between the various components of ionization circuit  115   a,  and does not necessarily illustrate the relative positions of the various components of ionization circuit  115   a . One embodiment of the arrangement of the components of an ionization circuit will be discussed in more detail below with  FIGS. 11   a - 11   n.    
     The electrode assembly of ionization circuit  115   a  can be of many different types, such as electrode assembly  140  of  FIG. 1 . Hence, in this embodiment, fastener  150  and electrode body  141  are in communication with each other as discussed in more detail above with  FIG. 1 . It should be noted that ionization circuit  115   a  can include a coated fastener, if desired. 
     In this embodiment, electrode assembly  140  includes electrode body  141  in communication with coil  120  ( FIGS. 9   a  and  9   b ) through a fluid  118 . Fluid  118  can be of many different types, such as water and oil. Fluid  118  generally includes the undesirable material that is discussed in more detail above. Conductive coil  120  is in communication with a solar panel array  112  through conductive line  168  ( FIGS. 8   b  and  9   a ). In this embodiment, wire  168   b  of conductive line  168  is connected to conductive coil  120 , as discussed in more detail above with  FIG. 9   a . It should be noted that wire  168   b  is also shown in  FIG. 11   n , which is discussed below. 
     In this embodiment, electrode assembly  140  includes fastener  150  in communication with solar panel array  112  through conductive line  167  ( FIG. 9   a ). In this embodiment, solar panel array  112  is in communication with fastener  150  and conductive coil  120  through conductive lines  167  and  168  as shown in  FIG. 9   a . In some embodiments, fastener  150  is in communication with solar panel array  112  through an optional diode  119 . It should be noted that, in some embodiments, diode  119  is included with solar panel array  112 . In other embodiments, diode  119  is carried by purifier system housing  101 . 
     In this embodiment, ionization circuit  115   b  includes an electronic indicator  177 , which is connected between potentials V 1  and V 2 . Electronic indicator  177  can be of many different types of indicators. For example, in some embodiments, electronic indicator  177  provides a visual indication that solar panel  112  is providing power. In particular, electronic indicator  177  provides the visual indication in response to solar panel  112  establishing potentials V 1  and V 2 . The visual indication can be of many different types, such as a power bar which includes a plurality of light emitting diodes. One example of a power bar is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,589,764. In other embodiments, electronic indicator  177  operates as a power meter which numerically displays the amount of power being provided by solar panel  112 . Electronic indicator  177  can be positioned at many different locations with a purifier system, several of which will be discussed in more detail below. 
     It should also be noted that ionization circuit  115   a  establishes a circuit path  116  through the connections between electrode body  141 , fluid  118 , coil  120 , diode  119 , solar panel array  112 , fastener  150  and conductive lines  167  and  168 . In particular, ionization circuit  115   a  establishes circuit path  116  through the connections between electrode body  141 , fluid  118 , coil  120 , diode  119 , solar panel array  112 , fastener  150  and conductive lines  167  and  168 . 
     Further, it should be noted that solar panel array  112  establishes potentials V 1  and V 2  of ionization circuit  115   a  to conductive lines  167  and  168 , respectively. In this embodiment, solar panel array  112  establishes potential V 1  with fastener  150  through conductive line  167  and potential V 2  to coil  120  through conductive line  168 . Solar panel array  112  established potentials V 1  and V 2  in response to receiving light  117 . Light  117  can be of many different types, such as sunlight from a sun  127 . It should be noted that, in this embodiment, potential V 1  is positive relative to potential V 2 . In other embodiments, the various components of ionization circuit  115   a  can be connected together so that potential V 2  is positive relative to potential V 1 . 
     Solar panel array  112  can be replaced with a power supply. The power supply can be of many different types, such as a battery, line voltage, and wind mill. In general, the power supply is capable of establishing potentials V 1  and V 2 . 
     In operation, the potential difference between V 1  and V 2  drives current through circuit path  116 . In particular, the potential difference between V 1  and V 2  drives the electrical current I through fluid  118 , and fluid  118  is conditioned in response. Fluid  118  can be conditioned in many different ways, such as by ionizing the fluid and/or ionizing undesirable material of the fluid. The undesirable material of fluid  118  can be of many different types, such as algae, bacteria, and impurities. As discussed in more detail above, fastener  150  includes titanium and/or the titanium alloy to reduce the amount of corrosion experienced by fastener  150  in response to the flow of the electrical current I. It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the electrical current I flows through the titanium and/or titanium alloy of fastener  150  in response to solar panel array  112  receiving light  117 . 
       FIGS. 11   a  and  11   b  are perspective and side views, respectively, of one embodiment of a purifier system  100 .  FIG. 11   c  is a cut-away perspective view of a purifier system housing of purifier system  100  taken along a cut-line  11   c - 11   c  of  FIG. 11   a , and  FIGS. 11   d  and  11   e  are cut-away perspective and side views, respectively, of purifier system  100  taken along a cut-line  11   d - 11   d  of  FIG. 11   a .  FIG. 11   f  is a top view of a portion of purifier system  100  of  FIGS. 11   a  and  11   b , and  FIGS. 11   g  and  11   h  are perspective and side views, respectively, of the portion of purifier system  100  of  FIG. 11   f .  FIGS. 11   i  and  11   j  are perspective and side views, respectively, of the portion of purifier system  100  of  FIG. 11   f  with conductive coil  120  of  FIG. 9   b .  FIG. 11   k  is a side perspective view of purifier system  100  of  FIGS. 11   a  and  11   b  with the strainer basket  130  removed. 
     In this embodiment, purifier system  100  includes strainer assembly  169  of  FIG. 9   a , wherein strainer assembly  169  includes coil  120  of  FIG. 9   b  and strainer basket  130  of  FIG. 9   c . It should be noted that strainer basket  130  is removed from strainer assembly  169  in  FIGS. 11   d ,  11   e ,  11   i  and  11   j  so that coil  120  and/or electrode body  141  can be seen more clearly. 
     In this embodiment, purifier system  100  includes an ionization circuit  115   b , which includes an electrode assembly, wherein ionization circuit  115   b  is shown in a schematic diagram in  FIG. 12 . It should be noted that the schematic diagram of  FIG. 12  illustrates the connections between the various components of ionization circuit  115   b , and does not necessarily illustrate the relative positions of the various components of ionization circuit  115   b . One embodiment of the arrangement of the components of ionization circuit  115   b  is shown in  FIGS. 11   a - 11   i  for illustrative purposes. 
     The electrode assembly of ionization circuit  115   b  can be of many different types, such as electrode assembly  140  of  FIG. 1 . Hence, in this embodiment, fastener  150  and electrode body  141  are in communication with each other as discussed in more detail above with  FIG. 1 . It should be noted that purifier system  100  can include a coated fastener, if desired. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 11   a ,  11   b ,  11   c ,  11   d ,  11   e ,  11   f ,  11   g ,  11   h ,  11   i  and  11   j,  purifier system  100  includes a purifier system housing  101 , which includes lower and upper purifier system housings  101   a  and  101   b.  It should be noted that, in some embodiments, upper and lower purifier system housings  101   a  and  101   b  are separate pieces coupled together. However, in this embodiment, upper and lower purifier system housings  101   a  and  101   b  are formed as a single integral piece. Upper and lower purifier system housings  101   a  and  101   b  can be formed as a single integral piece in many different ways, such as by using injection molding. Lower and upper purifier system housings  101   a  and  101   b  are sealed together so that purifier system housing  101  is buoyant. Lower purifier system housing  101   a  faces fluid  118  and upper purifier system housing  101   b  faces away from fluid  118 . Purifier system housing  101  can include many different types of material, such as rubber and plastic. 
     Upper and lower purifier system housings  101   a  and  101   b  bound a housing cavity  101   d,  as shown in  FIGS. 11   c ,  11   d ,  11   e ,  11   g ,  11   b ,  11   i  and  11   j , wherein housing cavity  101   d  is an internal volume of purifier system housing  101 . In this embodiment, purifier system  100  includes an annular flange  105  which extends annularly around the outer periphery of upper and lower purifier system housings  101   a  and  101   b . Purifier system  100  includes a lower bumper ring  103  which extends annularly around flange  105 . Lower bumper ring  103  protects purifier system housing  101  from damage, such as from engaging the side of a pool. 
     In this embodiment, purifier system  100  includes an annular groove  106  which extends annularly around an upper housing surface  102  of purifier system housing  101   b . Purifier system  100  includes an upper bumper ring  104  which extends annularly around groove  106 . Upper bumper ring  104  protects purifier system housing  101  from damage, such as from engaging a support surface when purifier system  100  is supported thereon upside down, such as during maintenance. Lower and upper seal rings  103  and  104  can include many different types of material, such as rubber and plastic. 
     In this embodiment, strainer assembly  169  is coupled to lower purifier system housing  101   a  so that strainer assembly  169  extends through fluid  118 . Strainer assembly  169  can be coupled to lower purifier system housing  101   a  in many different ways. In this embodiment, strainer assembly  169  is slidingly engaged with housing central portion  101   c  of purifier system housing  101 . Housing central portion  101   c  is also shown in  FIGS. 8   b  and  9   a . Strainer assembly  169  is slidingly engaged with housing central portion  101   c  so that is it repeatably moveable between coupled and uncoupled conditions with housing central portion  101   c.    
     In this particular embodiment, fastener  151  is extended through electrical connector  178  and a housing central portion opening  179 , wherein electrical connector  178  is electrically connected to conductive line  167 , as shown in  FIG. 8   b . Conductive washer  164  is positioned at the same side of housing central portion  101   c  as electrical connector  178 , and nut  165  is threaded to fastener  151  so that housing central portion  101   c  is held between nut  165  and washer  164 . Insulative bushing  160  is positioned so that fastener  151  extends through insulative bushing channel  162 . Electrode body  141  is positioned so that fastener  151  extends through electrode opening  142   a.  Conductive line  168  is electrically connected to conductive coil  120  using clamp  124 , as discussed in more detail above. As shown in  FIGS. 11   i  and  11   j , conductive coil  120  is slidingly engaged with housing central portion  101   c  by sliding conductive coil  120  through a slot  123 , which is shown in  FIG. 11   f , as well as some of the other drawings. 
     Strainer basket  130  is repeatably moveable between coupled and uncoupled conditions with housing central portion  101   c.  In this embodiment, strainer basket  130  is extended through an annular slot  126 , which is shown in  FIG. 11   c , as well as some of the other drawings. Strainer basket  130  is held to electrode body  141  by insulative fastener  170 , as discussed in more detail above with  FIG. 9   a.    
     In this embodiment, solar panel array  112  is carried by upper purifier system housing  101   b  proximate to upper housing surface  102 , as shown in  FIG. 11   f . Solar panel array  112  includes a plurality of solar panels  113  operatively coupled together through a ribbon wire  111 , which extends along upper housing surface  102 . Conductive lines  167  and  168  are electrically connected to opposed terminals of ribbon wire  111 . Solar panels  113  are operatively coupled together so they can establish the potential difference between potentials V 1  and V 2  in response to light  117  being received by solar panel array  112 . As discussed in more detail herein, potentials V 1  and V 2  are applied to conductive lines  167  and  168 , respectively. Conductive lines  167  and/or  168  are shown in  FIGS. 8   b ,  9   a ,  10 ,  11   i ,  11   j  and  12 . It should be noted that, in general, solar panel array  117  can include one or more solar panels. Further, it should be noted that solar panel array  112  is typically covered with a material which provides a hermetic seal. The material can be of many different types, such as a clear insulative coating. The material is clear to light  117  so that light  117  can flow therethrough and be received by solar panel array  112 . 
       FIG. 11   l  is a top view of one embodiment of a solar panel array  112   a,  which can be included with purifier system  100  of  FIGS. 11   a  and  11   b , and  FIGS. 11   m  and  11   n  are top and bottom perspective views, respectively, of solar panel array  112   a  of  FIG. 11   l . Solar panel array  112   a  can replace solar panel array  112  and upper bumper ring  104  of  FIGS. 11   a ,  11   b  and  11   k . Solar panel array  112   a  is useful because it can be manufactured as a separate piece and then positioned on upper housing surface  102 , as shown in  FIGS. 11   c ,  11   d  and  11   e . In this way, solar panel array  112   a  can be removed front purifier system housing  101  and replaced with another one, if desired. 
     In this embodiment, solar panel array  112   a  includes a support substrate  108 , which is disc shaped. Support substrate  108  can include many different types of material, such as rubber and plastic. In this embodiment, upper bumper ring  104  extends around the outer periphery of support substrate  108 , and solar panels  113  and ribbon wire  111  are carried by support substrate  108 . Upper bumper ring  104  is positioned proximate to upper housing surface  102  so that upper bumper ring  104  extends through annular groove  106  and support substrate  108  engages upper housing surface  102  ( FIGS. 11   c ,  11   d  and  11   e ). 
     As shown in  FIG. 11   i , support substrate  108  includes openings  109   a  and  109   b  through which conductive lines  167  and  168 , respectively, extend. As mentioned above, conductive lines  167  and  168  are electrically connected to oppose terminals of ribbon wire  111 . In this embodiment, electrical connector  178  is connected to a distal end of conductive line  167 . Distal end  168   a  of conductive line  168  is also shown in  FIG. 11   i . As mentioned with the discussion of  FIG. 9   a , distal end  168   a  is connected to coil  120 . 
       FIG. 12  is a schematic diagram of an ionization circuit  115   b,  which includes an electrode assembly. It should be noted that the schematic diagram of  FIG. 12  illustrates the connections between the various components of ionization circuit  115   b,  and does not necessarily illustrate the relative positions of the various components of ionization circuit  115   b . The arrangement of the components of ionization circuit  115   b  corresponds to the embodiments of  FIGS. 11   a - 11   n.    
     The electrode assembly of ionization circuit  115   b  can be of many different types, such as electrode assembly  140  of  FIG. 1 . Hence, in this embodiment, fastener  150  and electrode body  141  are in communication with each other as discussed in more detail above with  FIG. 1 . It should be noted that ionization circuit  115   b  can include a coated fastener  150   a , if desired. 
     In this embodiment, electrode assembly  140   c  includes electrode body  141  in communication with coil  120  ( FIGS. 9   a  and  9   b ) through fluid  118 . As mentioned above, fluid  118  can be of many different types, such as water and oil. Conductive coil  120  is in communication with a solar panel array  112  through conductive line  168  ( FIGS. 8   b  and  9   a ). It should be noted that solar panel array  112  can be replaced with solar panel array  112   a  of  FIGS. 11   m  and  11   n.  In this embodiment, wire  168   b  of conductive line  168  is connected to conductive coil  120 , as discussed in more detail above with  FIG. 9   a.  It should be noted that wire  168   b  is also shown in  FIG. 11   n , which is discussed above. 
     In this embodiment, electrode assembly  140   c  includes fastener  150  in communication with solar panel array  112  through conductive line  167  ( FIG. 9   a ). In this embodiment, conductive line  167  is connected to fastener  150 , as discussed in more detail above with  FIG. 9   a . Hence, solar panel array  112  is in communication with fastener  150  and coil  120  through conductive lines  167  and  168  as shown in  FIG. 9   a.  In some embodiments, fastener  150  is in communication with solar panel array  112  through optional diode  119 . It should be noted that, in some embodiments, diode  119  is included with solar panel array  112 . In other embodiments, diode  119  is carried by purifier system housing  101 . 
     In this embodiment, ionization circuit  115   b  includes electronic indicator  177 , which is connected between potentials V 1  and V 2 . As discussed above, electronic indicator  177  can be of many different types of indicators. For example, in some embodiments, electronic indicator  177  provides a visual indication that solar panel  112  is providing power. In particular, electronic indicator  177  provides the visual indication in response to solar panel  112  establishing potentials V 1  and V 2 . The visual indication can be of many different types, such as a power bar which includes a plurality of light emitting diodes. One example of a power bar is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,589,764. In other embodiments, electronic indicator  177  operates as a power meter which numerically displays the amount of power being provided by solar panel  112 . Electronic indicator  177  can be positioned at many different locations with a purifier system, several of which will be discussed in more detail below. 
     It should be noted that ionization circuit  115   b  establishes circuit path  116  through the connections between electrode body  141 , fluid  118 , coil  120 , diode  119 , solar panel array  112 , fastener  150  and conductive lines  167  and  168 . In particular, ionization circuit  115   b  establishes circuit path  116  through the connections between electrode body  141 , fluid  118 , coil  120 , diode  119 , solar panel array  112 , fastener  150  and conductive lines  167  and  168 . 
     Further, it should be noted that solar panel array  112  establishes potentials V 1  and V 2  of ionization circuit  115   b  to conductive lines  167  and  168 , respectively. In this embodiment, solar panel array  112  establishes potential V 1  with fastener  150  through conductive line  167  and potential V 2  to coil  120  through conductive line  168 . Solar panel array  112  established potentials V 1  and V 2  in response to receiving light  117 . Light  117  can be of many different types, such as sunlight from sun  127 . It should be noted that, in this embodiment, potential V 1  is positive relative to potential V 2 . In other embodiments, the various components of ionization circuit  115   b  can be connected together so that potential V 2  is positive relative to potential V 1 . 
     In operation, the potential difference between V 1  and V 2  drives current through circuit path  116 . In particular, the potential difference between V 1  and V 2  drives the electrical current I through fluid  118 , and fluid  118  is conditioned in response. Fluid  118  can be conditioned in many different ways, such as by ionizing the fluid and/or ionizing undesirable material of the fluid. The undesirable material of fluid  118  can be of many different types, such as algae, bacteria and impurities. As discussed in more detail above, fastener  150  includes titanium and/or the titanium alloy to reduce the amount of corrosion experienced by fastener  150  in response to the flow of the electrical current I. It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the electrical current I flows through the titanium and/or titanium alloy of fastener  150  in response to solar panel array  112  receiving light  117 . 
     The embodiments of the invention described herein are exemplary and numerous modifications, variations and rearrangements can be readily envisioned to achieve substantially equivalent results, all of which are intended to be embraced within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.