WO2015103554A2

WO2015103554A2 - Electrocoagulation apparatuses and methods

Info

Publication number: WO2015103554A2
Application number: PCT/US2015/010186
Authority: WO
Inventors: Kevin E. Collier
Original assignee: Consolidated International, Llc
Priority date: 2014-01-03
Filing date: 2015-01-05
Publication date: 2015-07-09
Also published as: WO2015103554A3

Abstract

Apparatuses, devices, systems and methods relating to coagulation of a fluid are disclosed. In one non-limiting embodiment, an electrocoagulation apparatus includes a tank defining a chamber, one or more cathodes positioned in the chamber, and a plurality of spaced apart anodes movable along a rotational path extending about the one or more cathodes. Additional and/or alternative embodiments, forms, features and aspects are disclosed herein.

Description

ELECTROCOAGULATION APPARATUSES AND METHODS

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/923,502, filed January 3, 2014, the contents of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure generally relates to processing a fluid, and more particularly but not exclusively, to apparatuses for electrocoagulation and methods for using such apparatuses. Electrocoagulation may be used for a variety of applications, including in systems for purifying and/or separating fluids into different fractions of components from which the non-processed fluid is composed. The composition of a non- processed fluid may vary, but in some forms, for example, it may be composed of hydrocarbons, water, solids, and/or gases.

The claimed subject matter is not limited to embodiments that solve any disadvantages or that operate only in environments such as those described above. Rather, this background is only provided to illustrate examples of where the present disclosure may be utilized.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure generally relates to the electrocoagulation of a fluid, and more particularly but not exclusively to apparatuses, devices, systems and methods for electrocoagulation of a fluid.

In one embodiment, an electrocoagulation apparatus includes a tank defining a chamber, one or more cathodes positioned in the chamber, and a plurality of spaced apart anodes movable along a rotational path extending about the one or more cathodes.

In another embodiment, a kit includes such an apparatus and instructions for adding a plurality of pieces of sacrificial conductive material to the chamber.

In still another embodiment, a method for using such an apparatus includes adding a number of pieces of sacrificial conductive material to the chamber of the tank and moving the anodes along the rotational path.

Another embodiment is directed to a process for operating an electrocoagulation apparatus that includes a tank and a plurality of electrodes. The process includes adding a number of individual pieces of sacrificial material into the tank to create a bed of the sacrificial material and moving at least one of the electrodes through the bed of sacrificial material.

In another embodiment, an apparatus includes a tank defining an internal chamber for receiving a fluid and a plurality of electrodes positioned in the tank. At least one of the electrodes is movable along a movement path and is selectively powerable depending on the position of the at least one electrode along the movement path.

In alternative embodiments, apparatuses, systems, devices, techniques, processes and methods for electrocoagulation of a fluid are disclosed.

This Summary introduces a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential characteristics of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice. The features and advantages may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary operating environment of an electrocoagulation apparatus.

Figure 2 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of an electrocoagulation apparatus.

Figure 3 A is a perspective view of the electrocoagulation apparatus of Figure 2.

Figure 3B is a perspective view of the electrocoagulation apparatus of Figure 3A with some features omitted.

Figures 4A-4B are perspective views of the electrocoagulation apparatus of Figure 3A with some features omitted.

Figures 5A-5B are perspective views of the electrocoagulation apparatus of Figure 3A with some features omitted.

Figure 6 is a section view of the electrocoagulation apparatus taken along view line 6-6 of Figure 4A. Figures 7A-7B are section views of the electrocoagulation apparatus taken along view line 7-7 of Figure 4A.

Figures 7C-7D are section views of alternative configurations of the electrocoagulation apparatus.

Figure 8 is a section view of an alternative embodiment of an electrocoagulation apparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For purposes of promoting an understanding of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to the following embodiments and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the described subject matter, and such further applications of the disclosed principles as described herein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the disclosure relates.

The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings, but, are merely used to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the disclosure. It is to be understood that the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a component surface" includes reference to one or more of such surfaces.

By the term "substantially" it is meant that the recited characteristic, parameter, or value need not be achieved exactly, but that deviations or variations, including for example, tolerances, measurement error, measurement accuracy limitations and other factors known to those skilled in the art, may occur in amounts that do not preclude the effect the characteristic was intended to provide.

The present disclosure generally relates to processing fluids, and more particularly but not exclusively to an electrocoagulation apparatus that may be included in a fluid processing system. For example, Figure 1 provides a schematic illustration of a non- limiting example of a system 10 for processing fluids and which includes an electrocoagulation apparatus 70. In one form, the system 10 is configured to process a fluid that may include hydrocarbons, water, solids, and/or gases.

The system 10 includes a pump 40 in fluid connection with a coalescing device 50. The pump 40 receives the fluid and accelerates the fluid into the coalescing device 50. The coalescing device 50 imparts rotational flow on the fluid such that the fluid begins to coalesce into fractions. The coalesced fluid travels from the coalescing device 50 to a separation tank 60. Inside the separation tank 60, the fluid may further develop different fractions.

A first fraction 66 of the fluid travels out of the separation tank 60 and is directed to the pump 40 to be further processed by the coalescing device 50 and the separation tank 60. A second fraction 64 which may be composed more predominantly of water exits the separation tank 60 and travels to the electrocoagulation apparatus 70. A third fraction 62 which may be composed more predominantly of hydrocarbons exits the separation tank 60 through an outlet.

The second fraction 64 travels from the separation tank 60 to the electrocoagulation apparatus 70, which further processes the second fraction 64 of the fluid. Second fraction 64 is used synonymously with inlet fluid 64 in this document. The processed fluid 74 travels from the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 to vacuum clarifiers 80 and 82. Portions of the fluid exit the vacuum clarifiers 80 and 82 to a first filter 90, a second filter 94, and a third filter 98 for further processing.

The system 10 illustrates an example of an operating environment in which the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 may be employed. However, the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 may be utilized in other operating environments and/or other systems for processing fluids.

Further details of the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 will now be provided with reference to Figures 2-8, where one non-limiting embodiment of the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 is schematically illustrated. The electrocoagulation apparatus 70 includes a tank 100 that receives inlet fluid 64 and is configured to release outlet fluid 74 A first power supply 200 and a second power supply 202 are electrically coupled to portions of the tank 100 to supply electrical current to various components of the electrocoagulation apparatus 70. A drive member such as motor 204 is coupled with and configured to drive the tank 100 in a rotational direction. These and other aspects of apparatus 70 will be described in further detail below.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, a pump 112 is positioned downstream of the tank 100 and generates negative pressure inside of the tank 100. In this context, "negative pressure" refers to: an internal pressure of the tank 100 that is less than an internal pressure of a portion of the system 10 upstream of the tank 100; an internal pressure inside of the tank 100 that is less than an external pressure outside of the tank 100; and/or an internal pressure of the tank 100 that is less than atmospheric pressure. The negative pressure generated by the pump 112 pulls fluid through the tank 100. In some configurations, the pump 112 is configured to control the flow rate of fluid through the tank 100. For example, the pump 112 may increase the negative pressure to increase flow rate, or decrease the negative pressure to decrease the flow rate. As illustrated, the pump 112 is a component of the electrocoagulation apparatus 70. In other configurations, the pump 112 may be included as a discrete component in the system 10 of Figure 1, or as part of one or both of the vacuum clarifiers 80, 82. In other configurations, systems may include multiple pumps or pumps may be omitted.

A first port 102 is positioned upstream of the tank 100 and configured to facilitate the addition of additives to the inlet fluid 64. The additives may be fluids and/or materials that modify characteristics of the inlet fluid 84 to facilitate processing by electrocoagulation apparatus 70. For example, the additives may influence the pH, ionic charge, particle size, chemical composition, distribution of particles, and/or other characteristics of the inlet fluid 64. In one form, the additives may include sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The first port 102 may be configured to permit additives to be added to the inlet fluid 64 incrementally or continuously.

With continued reference to Figure 2, for example, a second port 104 is positioned upstream of the tank 100 and configured to permit a sacrificial material to be added to the inlet fluid 64. The second port 104 may include an airlock device that permits the passage of the sacrificial material into the inlet fluid 64 while minimizing the change of pressure to the inlet fluid 64, the tank 100, and/or other portions of the system. In this manner, the airlock device may facilitate the addition of sacrificial material without affecting the negative pressure generated by the pump 112. In one form for example, it is contemplated the airlock device may include a chamber with two valves in series that are not opened simultaneously in order to eliminate or minimize any impact on system pressure.

The sacrificial material may be a conductive or semi-conductive substance capable of ionization inside of the tank 100 during operation of apparatus 70. For example, the sacrificial material may include metals (such as aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), iron (Fe) or other metals), metalloids, nonmetals (such as graphite (C) or other nonmetal forms), alloys (such as steel or other alloys), or any suitable combination thereof. The sacrificial electrode material may be a fragmented solid and the fragments of the solid may be sized and shaped to permit the fragments to travel through the second port 104 and with the inlet fluid 64 into the tank 100. In one form, the sacrificial material may be fragmented scrap metal divided into portions small enough to travel with the inlet fluid 64 into the tank 100 and to form a bed of sacrificial material in the bottom of the tank 100.

A third port 106 positioned downstream of the tank 100 is configured to facilitate removal of a portion of the outlet fluid 74. The third port 106 may permit samples of the outlet fluid 74 to be evaluated and/or analyzed, and may be configured to permit fractions of the outlet fluid 74 to be removed from the outlet fluid 74 incrementally or continuously.

Figures 3A-3B illustrate perspective views of one non-limiting embodiment of the electrocoagulation apparatus 70. In the illustrated form, the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 extends between a first end 120 and a second end 122. An inlet assembly 130 is positioned at the first end 120 and configured to permit fluid to enter the tank 100. An outlet assembly 140 (see for example Figure 3B) is positioned at the second end 122 and configured to permit fluid to exit the tank 100.

Turning to Figure 3B for example, the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 is supported by a support assembly 170. As illustrated, the support assembly 170 includes support members 156, 166 that are configured to be positioned on a surface underlying the electrocoagulation apparatus 70. An inlet support member 150 is coupled to the support member 156 and configured to support the inlet assembly 130. An outlet support member 160 is coupled to the support member 166 and configured to support the outlet assembly 140. In this arrangement, the tank 100 is suspended above a portion of the support assembly 170. The support assembly 170 includes conductor support members 154 coupled to the support member 156 and conductor support members 164 coupled to the support member 166. The support assembly 170 includes power supply support members 172 configured to support the power supplies 200 and 202 (see for example Figure 3 A).

With reference to both Figures 3A and 3B for example, the motor 204 is coupled to the support assembly 170 and configured to drive the tank 100 in a rotational direction, as will be described in further detail below. An electronic assembly 206 is coupled to the support assembly 170 and is configured to operate the electrocoagulation apparatus 70. For example, the electronic assembly 206 may control the power supplies 200, 202, the motor 204, the pump 112 of Figure 2, and/or other aspects of the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 or the system 10. In some configurations, the electronic assembly 206 may include a user interface displaying information regarding the operation of the electrocoagulation apparatus 70, and/or receiving user input. The electrocoagulation apparatus 70 includes a plurality of panels 174 at least partially covering portions of the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 as shown in Figure 3A where only some the panels 174 are labeled for the sake of clarity. The panels 174 are coupled to various components of the apparatus 70, including the support assembly 170. Where necessary, the panels 174 include openings for components of apparatus 70 such as the motor 204 and the inlet assembly 130. A number of the panels 174 are configured to be selectively opened and closed to facilitate access to portions of the electrocoagulation apparatus 70. In non-illustrated embodiments, the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 may include configurations with any suitable support assemblies or panels, or the support assembly and/or panels may be partially or entirely omitted.

The inlet assembly 130 includes an inlet seal 134, an inlet bearing 136, and an inlet shaft 138 supported by an inlet gusset 139. An inlet conduit 132 extends through the inlet assembly 130 and permits fluid to enter the tank 100. The inlet seal 134 is configured to be coupled to other portions of the system 10 such as, for example, a conduit extending from the coalescing device 50 to the electrocoagulation apparatus 70.

The tank 100 is substantially cylindrical in the illustrated form with a first tank end member 114 positioned at the first end 120 of apparatus 70 and a second tank end member 116 positioned at the second end 122 of apparatus 70. In the illustrated configuration, the first and second tank end members 114 and 116 are removably coupled to a cylindrical portion of the tank 100 at corresponding flanges by bolts, although any suitable couplings or fasteners are contemplated. In non-illustrated configurations, the tank 100 may be formed of a single integral member. In other non-illustrated examples, the tank 100 may not be cylindrical and may be any suitable configuration such as multilateral, rectangular, or other configurations.

Similar to the inlet assembly 130, the outlet assembly 140 includes an outlet seal

144, an outlet bearing 146, and an outlet shaft 148 supported by an outlet gusset 149. An outlet conduit 142 extends through the outlet assembly 140 and permits fluid to exit the tank 100. The outlet seal 144 is configured to be coupled to other portions of the system 10 such as, for example, a conduit extending from the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 to the vacuum clarifiers 80, 82 (see, for example, Figure 1) or the pump 112 (see, for example, Figure 2).

The electrocoagulation apparatus 70 is configured to permit the tank 100 to rotate around an axis 108. As illustrated, the axis 108 corresponds to a central longitudinal axis of the tank 100 and is concentric with the inlet conduit 132 and the outlet conduit 142. However, in non-illustrated configurations, it is contemplated the axis 108 about which the tank 100 rotates may not correspond to the central longitudinal axis of the tank 100. For example, the tank 100 may rotate about an axis that is parallel to and offset from the central longitudinal axis of the tank 100. In another example, the tank 100 may rotate about an axis that is transverse to the central longitudinal axis of the tank 100.

In the illustrated form, the tank 100 is rotated by the motor 204. More specifically, the motor 204 is coupled to a motor gear 210 and the tank 100 includes a tank gear 212. The motor gear 210 interfaces with the tank gear 212 to drive the tank 100 in a rotational direction about the axis 108. In non-illustrated configurations, the tank 100 may be displaced in a rotational direction by any suitable alternative drive configuration. For example, force generated by the motor 204 may be transferred as rotational motion to the tank 100 by a belt, chain, axle or any suitable mechanical or electronic transmission system. In another example, the motor 204 may be omitted and the tank 100 may be rotated by other suitable magnetic or electronic drive mechanisms.

The inlet assembly 130 and the outlet assembly 140 are configured to permit the tank 100 to rotate with respect to one or more of: the support assembly 170, the ground underlying the tank 100, the inlet fluid 64, the outlet fluid 74, other portions of the system 10, and/or other components of the electrocoagulation apparatus 70. More particularly, the inlet bearing 136 facilitates rotation of the inlet shaft 138 relative to the inlet seal 134 and the inlet conduit 132 permits fluid to enter the tank 100 as the tank 100 rotates along the axis 108. The outlet bearing 146 facilitates rotation of the outlet shaft 148 relative to the outlet seal 144 and the outlet conduit 142 permits fluid to exit the tank 100 as the tank 100 rotates along the axis 108.

The tank 100 includes a first access panel 124 configured to facilitate access to the interior of the tank 100. A second access panel 126 is positioned opposite of the first access panel 124 on the tank 100 and is configured to facilitate access to the interior of the tank 100. Amongst other things, access to the tank 100 interior through one or both of the access panels 124 and 126 may be utilized to add or remove materials to or from the tank 100 or to clean the tank 100. As illustrated, the access panels 124 and 126 are removably coupled to the tank 100 with bolts, although any suitable coupling or fasteners are contemplated. The first access panel 124 includes a port 1 8 that is configured to discharge fluid and/or other material from the tank 100. Additionally or alternatively, the port 128 may be configured to permit fluid and/or material to enter the tank 100, incrementally or continuously. In non-illustrated configurations, the tank 100 may include ports at other positions on the tank 100 that may permit insertion and/or removal of material with respect to the tank 100. For example, ports may be positioned on the access panel 126, the first tank end member 114, the second tank end member 116, or other portions of the electrocoagulation apparatus 70. In other forms, it is contemplated that access panels 124 and 126 may be omitted from the tank 100.

As mentioned above, the first power supply 200 and the second power supply 202 are electrically coupled to portions of the tank 100 to supply electrical current to components of the electrocoagulation apparatus 70. For example, either one or both of the power supplies 200, 202 may be electrically coupled to first conductor members 220 by wires (not illustrated for the sake of clarity). The first conductor members 220 may be electrically coupled to a second conductor member 222 that is coupled to the tank 100 by coupling members 152 (only some of which are labeled for the sake of clarity). In the illustrated configuration, the coupling members 152 are bolts, although any suitable coupling or fastener is contemplated. The coupling members 152 include electrically insulating portions that partially or entirely inhibit electricity flow from the second conductor member 222 to the tank 100 through the coupling members 152.

As the tank 100 rotates, the second conductor member 222 rotates along with the tank 100 while the first conductor members 220 remain stationary. The configuration of the first and second conductor members 220, 222 facilitates transmission of an electrical current between first and second conductor members 220, 222 as the tank 100 rotates. For example, as the second conductor member 222 rotates with the tank 100, the first conductor members 220 contact the second conductor member 222 thereby permitting electricity to be conducted. In the illustrated configuration, the first conductor members 220 include contacting conductive brushes that interface with the second conductor member 222 that includes an annular conductive panel, although other suitable configurations are contemplated. The second conductor member 222 is electrically coupled with a third conductor member 224 (see for example Figure 5A) extending through the first tank end member 114. The third conductor member 224 is configured to transmit an electrical current between the second conductor member 222 and a component positioned in the tank 100, as will be described in further detail below.

In the illustrated configuration, the first conductor members 220 contact the second conductor member 222 in all rotational positions of the tank 100. In non- illustrated embodiments, the first conductor members 220 and the second conductor member 222 may be configured to selectively contact one another depending on the rotational position of the tank 100. In such configurations, electrical current may only be transferred between the first conductor members 220 and the second conductor member 222 in some rotational positions of the tank 100. For example, the second conductor member 222 may be an annular panel with openings or slots such that the first conductor members 220 contact the second conductor member 222 only in some rotational positions. In another example, the second conductor member 222 may be semi-circular or a portion of a circular or angular shape to permit the first conductor members 220 to contact the second conductor member 222 only in some rotational positions. In yet another example, the second conductor member 222 may be angled with respect to the first conductor members 220 such that the first conductor members 220 contact the second conductor member 222 only in some rotational positions. In still another example, the first conductor members 220 may be positioned to selectively contact the second conductor member 222 to transmit electrical current to electrodes positioned in some rotational positions inside of the tank 100, as will be described in further detail below.

In further non-illustrated embodiments, electrical current may be selectively controlled depending on the rotational position of the tank 100 by an electronic assembly such as a logic controller, electronic timing assembly, or other suitable electronic component.

With attention to Figure 4B for example, either one or both of the power supplies 200, 202 may be electrically coupled to fourth conductor members 230 by wires (not illustrated for the sake of clarity). The fourth conductor members 230 may be electrically coupled to a fifth conductor member 232 that is coupled to the tank 100 by coupling members 162 (only some of which are labeled for the sake of clarity). In the illustrated configuration, the coupling members 162 are bolts, although any suitable coupling or fastener is contemplated. The coupling members 162 include electrically insulating portions that partially or entirely inhibit electrical current from the fifth conductor member 232 to transfer to the tank 100 through the coupling members 162.

As the tank 100 rotates, the fifth conductor member 232 rotates along with the tank 100 while the fourth conductor members 230 remain stationary. The configuration of the fourth and fifth conductor members 230, 232 permit electrical current or power to be conducted from the power supplies 200, 202 to the fifth conductor member 232 via the fourth conductor members 230 as the tank 100 rotates. For example, as the fifth conductor member 232 rotates with the tank 100, the fourth conductor members 230 contact the fifth conductor member 232 thereby permitting electricity to be conducted. In the illustrated configuration, the fourth conductor members 230 include contacting conductive brushes that interface with the fifth conductor member 232 that includes an annular conductive panel, although other suitable configurations are contemplated. The fifth conductor member 232 is electrically coupled with sixth conductive members 234a, 234b, 234c, and 234d, extending from the fifth conductor member 232 along the tank 100. The sixth conductive members 234a-d are spaced apart radially around the tank and are coupled to the tank 100 by coupling members 236 (only some of which are labeled for the sake of clarity). In the illustrated configuration, the coupling members 236 are bolts, although any suitable coupling or fastener is contemplated. The coupling members 236 include electrically insulating portions that partially or entirely inhibit electrical current from the fifth conductor member 232 to transfer to the walls of the tank 100 through the coupling members 236. The coupling members 236 extend through the wall of the tank 100 and are configured to conduct electricity from the fifth conductor member 232 to components positioned the tank 100, as will be described in further detail below.

In the illustrated configuration, the fourth conductor members 230 contact the fifth conductor member 232 in all rotational positions of the tank 100. In non-illustrated embodiments, the fourth conductor members 230 and the fifth conductor member 232 may be configured to selectively contact one another depending on the rotational position of the tank 100. In such configurations, electricity may be permitted to travel from the power supplies 200, 202 to the fifth conductor member 232 (and to the sixth conductive members 234a-d) only in some rotational positions of the tank 100. For example, the fifth conductor member 232 may be an annular panel with openings or slots such that the fourth conductor members 230 contact the fifth conductor member 232 only in some rotational positions. In another example, the fifth conductor member 232 may be semi- circular or a portion of a circular or angular shape to permit the fourth conductor members 230 to contact the fifth conductor member 232 only in some rotational positions. In yet another example, the fifth conductor member 232 may be angled with respect to the fourth conductor members 230 such that the fourth conductor members 230 contact the fifth conductor member 232 only in some rotational positions. In still another example, the fourth conductor members 230 may be positioned to selectively contact the fifth conductor member 232 to transmit electrical current to electrodes positioned in some rotational positions inside of the tank 100, as will be described in further detail below.

As best shown in Figures 5A-5B for example, the third conductor member 224 extends through the first tank end member 114 and is coupled to an electrode 226 which, in one or more forms, serves as a cathode and is positioned inside of the tank 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the electrode 226 is positioned in the center of the tank 100 along the axis 108, although other configurations are contemplated. The third conductor member 224 includes a portion spaced apart from the first tank end member 114 that extends radially toward the axis 108. The spaced apart configuration of the third conductor member 224 permits fluid to enter the tank the tank 100 via the inlet conduit 132 without being blocked by the third conductor member 224. The electrode 226 is supported by electrode support members 228 extending radially and coupled to the wall of the tank 100.

The electrocoagulation apparatus 70 includes electrodes 238a, 238b, 238c and 238d which, in one or more forms, serve as anodes and are positioned inside of the tank 100. In the illustrated configuration, each of the electrodes 238a-d is electrically coupled to a corresponding one of the conductor members 234a-d via one of the coupling members 236. A first end of each of the electrodes 238a-d is supported relative to the wall of the tank 100 by an electrode support member 239 and a second end of each of the electrodes 238a-d is supported by a corresponding coupling member 236. The electrode support members 239 include electrically insulating portions that partially or entirely inhibit electrical current from transferring from the electrodes 238a-d to the walls of the tank 100. In this arrangement, electrodes 238a-d move along a movement or rotation path that extends about electrode 226 when the tank 100 is rotated. In other forms, it is contemplated that the tank 100 may remain stationary and that apparatus is configured to facilitate movement of electrodes 238a-d along the same or a similar rotation path independent of any movement of the tank 100.

The electrodes may be formed of conductive or semi-conductive substance capable of conducting electricity to fluid 240 and material 242 inside of the tank 100. In one example, one or more of the electrodes 226, 238a-d is formed of copper or aluminum. The material of one or more of the electrodes 226, 238a-d may be selected to decrease or eliminate electrochemical corrosion. The material of one or more of the electrodes 226, 238a-d may be selected to decrease or eliminate abrasive wear as the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 operates. As illustrated for example in Figure 5B, the outlet assembly 140 includes an outlet conduit member 1 10 extending through the second tank end member 116 along the axis 108. In this form, the outlet conduit member 1 10 is substantially L-shaped or J-shaped, although other configurations are contemplated. The outlet conduit member 110 is configured not to move when the tank 100 rotates, as will be discussed in further detail below. In such configurations, the outlet conduit member 110 permits matter at an upper portion of the tank 100 to exit via the outlet conduit 142.

Turning to Figure 6, further details regarding operation of the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 will be provided. As illustrated, a fluid 240 passes through the inlet conduit 132 into the tank 100. The fluid 240 then undergoes electrocoagulation and exits the tank 100 via the outlet conduit member 110 extending through the second tank end member 116. It is contemplated that the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 may be used in connection with a variety of different fluids. In one non-limiting form, the fluid 240 may include oil, water, solids, and/or dissolved gas.

Once the fluid 240 enters the tank 100, components of the fluid 240 may travel to different portions of the tank 100 based on various properties of the components. These properties include, for example, viscosity, density, phase, velocity, miscibility, solubility and particle diameter. Certain components of the fluid 240, such as solid material, may tend to travel downward through the tank 100. Other components of the fluid 240, such as gases, may tend to travel upward through the tank 100. In some circumstances, positioning of various components of the fluid 240 inside the tank 100 may be primarily driven by differences in density of components of the fluid 240.

As illustrated, sacrificial material 242 may be immersed in the fluid 240 and positioned towards a lower portion of the tank 100 such that a bed of the sacrificial material is formed. Gases 244 may be positioned inside of the tank 100 towards an upper portion of the tank 100 opposite the lower portion. In the illustrated form, the outlet conduit member 1 10 is configured to permit portions of the fluid 240 and/or portions of the gases 244 positioned toward the upper portion of the tank 100 to exit the tank 100.

The sacrificial material 242 may be a conductive or semi-conductive substance capable of ionization inside of the tank 100. For example, the material 242 may include metals (such as aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), iron (Fe), or other metals), metalloids, nonmetals (such as graphite (C) or other nonmetal forms), alloys (such as steel or other alloys), or any suitable combination thereof. The sacrificial material 242 may be a fragmented solid and the fragments of the solid may be sized and shaped to permit the fragments to travel through the inlet conduit 132 into the tank 100. For example, the sacrificial material 242 may be fragmented scrap metal divided into portions small enough to travel through the inlet conduit 132 into the tank 100. The fluid 240 may include an electrolyte such as an ion-conducting polymer containing free ions which are the carriers of electric current in the electrolyte.

In one form, the sacrificial material 242 may be added via the second port 104 positioned upstream of the tank 100 as described above with respect to Figure 2. The sacrificial material 242 may travel through the inlet conduit 132 and may settle towards the lower portion of the tank 100 as a result of density differences between the material 242 and the fluid 240. In other forms, the material 242 may be added via the access panel 124, the access panel 126, and/or the port 128.

In operation, the tank 100 rotates as the fluid 240 enters the tank 100 via the inlet assembly 130 and exits via the outlet assembly 140. Electricity is directed through portions of the material 242 and/or the fluid 240 to process the fluid. Turning to Figures 7A-7D, the operation of the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 will be discussed in further detail. Figures 7A-7D illustrate section views of the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 with exemplary electrical configurations. As illustrated, the tank 100 is configured to rotate in a counter clockwise direction about the electrode 226, although it is contemplated that the tank 100 may rotate in a clockwise direction. The electrodes 238a-d and corresponding sixth conductor members 234a-d rotate along with the tank 100.

The rotational movement of the tank 100 moves electrodes 238a-d through the sacrificial material and causes the sacrificial material 242 at the bottom of the tank 100 to move, for example, in a tumbling motion. As the material 242 tumbles, portions of the sacrificial material 242 may abrasively interact with one another to keep the sacrificial material 242 free of contaminant build-up and/or mineral deposits amongst other things. The tumbling of the material 242 may abrasively interact with the electrodes 238a-d and/or the interior of the tank 100 which may also keep the electrodes 238a-d and/or the interior of the tank 100 free of contaminant build-up and/or mineral deposits amongst other things. A coating may protect the walls of the tank 100, and/or portions of the interior of the tank 100 from abrasion and/or deterioration. When present, the coating may be, for example, an epoxy or polyurea coating.

As discussed above, the electrode 226 positioned in the center of the tank 100 and the electrodes 238a-d positioned toward the walls of the tank 100 are electrically coupled to the power supplies 200, 202 via the conductor members 220, 222, 224, 228, 230, 232, 234a-d, and the coupling members 236.. In operation, the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 may be configured such that the electrodes 225 and 238a-d include a positive charge, a negative charge, or substantially no charge at a given moment. In Figures 7A-7D, a positive charge is represented by a plus sign (+), a negative charge is represented by negative sign (-), and a non-activated electrode is represented by zero (0). If the electrical charge of one or more of the electrodes 226 and 238a-d is incremental, the charge may depend on the rotational position of the tank 100. The electrical charge of the electrodes 225 and 238a-d may be controlled electronically, for example, by the electronic assembly 206, or by the configuration of the conductor members 220, 222, 224, 228, 230, 232, 234a-d, as discussed above.

The electrical charge of the electrodes 225 and 238a-d may be continuous or incremental. For example, any one or more of the electrodes 226 and 238a-d may be continuously positively charged by electrical current (+), continuously negatively charged by electrical current (-), or substantially not charged or activated (0). In another example, the electrical charge of one or more of the electrodes 225 and 238a-d may depend on the rotational position of the tank 100.

As illustrated for example in Figure 7A, the electrode 226 is negatively charged and two of the electrodes 238b and 238c that are in contact with the material 242 are positively charged. As illustrated, the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 may be configured such that two of the electrodes 238a-d are selectively activated in certain rotational positions of the tank 100. For example, the electrodes 238a-d may be selectively activated such that the electrodes 238b and 238c in contact with the material 242 have a positive charge (+), as illustrated. As the tank 100 continues to rotate, the electrodes 238b and 238c may lose contact with the material 242 and may be deactivated (0), and the electrodes 238a and 238d may be activated in certain rotational positions or when in contact with the material 242. In another example, the electrodes 238a-d may be selectively activated when each is positioned in a rotational position towards the bottom of the tank 100, such as electrodes 238b and 238c, such that power is provided to an electrode at a rotational position where the electrode approaches or is in contact with the material 242.

As illustrated for example in Figure 7B, the electrode 226 is negatively charged (- ), and one of the electrodes 238b that is in contact with the material 242 is positively charged (+). As illustrated, the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 may be configured such that one of the electrodes 238a-d is selectively activated in certain rotational positions of the tank 100. For example, the electrodes 238a-d may be selectively activated such that one electrode 238b in contact with the material 242 has a positive charge (+), as illustrated. As the tank 100 continues to rotate, the electrode 238b may lose contact with the material 242 and may be deactivated (0), and the electrodes 238a, 238c and 238d may be activated in certain rotational positions where they are near or in contact with the material 242. In another example, the electrodes 238a-d may be selectively activated when each is positioned in a rotational position towards the bottom of the tank 100, such as in the position of electrode 238b, as illustrated.

Figures 7C and 7D represent operation of alternative configurations of the apparatus 70. More particularly, in these forms the apparatus is configured to provide different charges to the electrodes 238a-d. As illustrated for example in Figure 7C, the electrode 226 is not activated, two of the electrodes 238b and 238c that are in contact with the material 242 are positively charged (+), and two of the electrodes 238a and 238d are negatively charged (-). As illustrated, the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 may be configured such that all of the electrodes 238a-d are selectively activated in certain rotational positions of the tank 100, and electrode 226 is not activated in any rotational positions. For example, the electrodes 238a-d may be selectively activated such that the electrodes 238b and 238c in contact with the material 242 have a positive charge (+), and electrodes 238a and 238d are negatively charged (-), as illustrated. As the tank 100 continues to rotate, the charge of the electrodes 238b and 238c may change from positive (+) to negative (-) depending on the rotational position of the tank 100. In other example, the charge of the electrodes 238b and 238c may change from positive (+) to negative (-) as the electrodes 238b and 238c lose contact with the material 242, and the charge of the electrodes 238a and 238d may change from negative (-) to positive (+) as the electrodes 238a and 238d contact the material 242 in certain rotational positions.

As illustrated for example in Figure 7D, the electrode 226 is not activated, one of the electrodes 238b that is in contact with the material 242 is positively charged (+), one of the electrodes 238d is negatively charged (-), and two of the electrodes 238a, 238c are not activated. As illustrated, the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 may be configured such two of the electrodes 238a-d are selectively activated in certain rotational positions of the tank 100, two of the electrodes 238a-d are not activated in certain rotational positions of the tank 100, and electrode 226 is not activated in any rotational positions. For example, the electrodes 238a-d may be selectively activated such that the electrode 238b in contact with the material 242 has a positive charge (+), and electrode 238d is negatively charged (-), as illustrated. As the tank 100 continues to rotate, the charge of the electrodes 238a-d may change from activated to non-activated depending on the rotational position of the tank 100. In another example, the charge of the electrodes 238b and 238c may be deactivated as the electrodes 238a-d lose contact with the material 242 or activated as the electrodes 238a-d gain contact with the material 242.

In non-illustrated configurations, the electrodes 238a-d may be activated and, for example, positively charged in all rotational positions, and the electrode 226 may be activated and, for example, negatively charged in all rotational positions.

When the electrodes 226, 234a-d are activated, electrical current flows between the electrodes 226, 234a-d through the fluid 240 and the material 242. Electrical current running through the fluid 240 and the material 242 contributes to processing the fluid 240 by changing the characteristics of the fluid 240. When the electrodes 226, 234a-d are activated, electricity flows through the material 242 which begins to electrochemically corrode due to oxidation. The material of the positively charged electrodes may be selected to prevent electrochemically corrosion such that only the material 242 is corroded. The negatively charged electrodes are subjected to passivation and do not electrochemically corrode. As the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 operates, the electronic assembly 206 may be configured to control the charge and current density through the electrodes 226, 238a-d and/or analyze the current in the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 to control the operation of the electrocoagulation apparatus 70.

In operation, several electrochemical reactions may occur within the tank 100. For example, seeding, emulsion breaking, halogen complexing, bleaching, oxidation reduction, electrocoagulation, electrolysis, among others, may occur. Seeding may be caused by anode reduction of ions that become new centers for larger, stable, insoluble complexes that precipitate as complex ions. Emulsion breaking may be occur as oxygen and hydrogen ions that bond into receptor sites of oil molecules create water-insoluble complexes thereby separating water from other components such as emulsion, hydrocarbons, and others. Halogen complexing may occur as ions bind themselves to chlorines in a chlorinated hydrocarbon molecules resulting in insoluble complexes separating water from other components. Bleaching may occur as oxygen ions oxidize components such as dyes, cyanides, bacteria, viruses, biohazards, or other components. Electron flooding may eliminate or decrease the polar effect of water complexes, allowing colloidal materials to precipitate. Increased electrons may result in osmotic pressure that ruptures bacteria, cysts, and viruses. Oxidation reduction reactions may leach their end point within the reaction tank speeding up natural processes. Electrocoagulation may also change the pH characteristics of the fluid 240.

Electrocoagulating the fluid 240 may facilitate fractions of the fluid 240 to be separated. For example, the fluid 240 may include fractions of emulsion, hydrocarbons, refractory organics, suspended solids, ions, colloids and/or heavy metals and electrocoagulation may facilitate separate of such fractions. Certain components of the fluid 240 may be held in solution by electrical charges. Applying an electrical charge to the fluid 240 may change the particle surface charge of components of the fluid 240, permitting components of the fluid 240 to form an agglomeration. Adding charged ions to the fluid 240 may destabilize certain components of the fluid 240, thereby permitting the components to agglomerate,

Directing electrical current through the material 242 may drive chemical reactions on the surface of the particles of the material 242, such as electrolysis reactions. The voltage that is needed to drive electrolysis is called the decomposition potential. The decomposition potential depends on characteristics of the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 such as the properties of the material 242, the properties of the fluid 240, among other properties. The electronic assembly 206 may be configured to control the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 to operate at a suitable voltage. The material 242 may be selected depending on desired operating characteristics of the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 such as, for example, the decomposition potential. The material of the electrodes 226, 234a-d may be selected to decrease or eliminate decomposition by electrolysis.

Directing electrical current through the material 242 may produce ions with a positive charge in the fluid 240. These ions may be attracted to the fine negatively charged particles of components of the fluid 240. As a result, repelling forces between components of the fluid 240 may be broken and the dispersed components may combine into larger separable aggregates. The resulting agglomerations of the components may increase in size until they are no longer stable in the fluid 240. Once destabilized, the positively charged ions react with negatively charged particles in the fluid 240 resulting in fractions that approach a more stable state within the fluid 240, which may be referred to as "floe." In some circumstances, gases formed by electrolysis form very fine bubbles that associate with the coagulated components and buoy them upwards by flotation. Because the floe is stable it can be more easily separated from the fluid 240 by separation techniques. The ions remove components by facilitating chemical reactions and/or facilitating precipitation of components of the fluid 240.

As the fluid 240 continues to be processed, components of the fluid 240 may begin separating into fractions. A water fraction more predominantly including water may form within the fluid 240. A coagulated fraction may tend to travel upward in the tank 100 through the fluid 240. The coagulated fraction may travel up through the fluid 240 and out of the tank 100 via the outlet conduit member 110. A sediment fraction may tend to travel downward in the tank 100 through the fluid 240. The sediment fraction may collect at the bottom of the tank 100 and may be removed, for example, through the access panel 126. Gasses may collect at the top of the tank 100 and may be removed, for example, through the access panel 126 or the port 128. In another example, gasses may exit the tank 100 through the outlet conduit member 110.

As electrochemical reactions in the tank 100 continue, contaminants may build up on the surface of the material 242. The contaminants may be removed from the surface of the material 242 by the abrasive interaction of the portions of the material 242 as the material 242 tumbles. The contaminants may be removed from the surface of the material 242 and travel away from the surface of the material 242 through the fluid 240. The contaminants may exit the tank 100 via the outlet conduit member 110 or may gather on the bottom of the tank 100 and may be removed, for example, via the access panel 126 or the port 128. As the material 242 decomposes and is used up in processing the fluid 240, additional material 242 may be added to the tank 100 via the inlet assembly 130, the access panels 124, 126, or the port 128.

With attention to Figure 8, an alternative configuration of the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 will be discussed in further detail. As illustrated, semi-circular electrodes 338a, 338b, 338c, 338d, are positioned adjacent to the walls of the tank 100. The electrodes 338a, 338b, 338c, 338d, may be included as an alternative to one or more of the electrodes 238a-d, or in addition to the electrodes 238a-d. In the illustrated configuration, the electrode 226 is negatively charged (-), and one of the electrodes 338b that is in contact with the material 242 is positively charged (+). As illustrated, the electrocoagulation apparatus 70 may be configured such that one of the electrodes 338a-d is selectively activated in certain rotational positions of the tank 100. For example, the electrodes 338a-d may be selectively activated such that the electrode 338b in contact with the material 242 has a positive charge (+), as illustrated. As the tank 100 continues to rotate, the electrode 338b may lose contact with the material 242 and may be deactivated (0), and the electrodes 338a, 338c and 338d may be activated in certain rotational positions or when in contact with the material 242. In another example, the electrodes 338a-d may be selectively activated when each is positioned in a rotational position towards the bottom of the tank 100, such as in the position of electrode 338b, as illustrated.

In one embodiment, an electrocoagulation apparatus includes a tank defining a chamber; one or more cathodes positioned in the chamber; and a plurality of spaced apart anodes movable along a rotational path extending about the one or more cathodes. In one form of this embodiment, the anodes are selectively powerable when moved to different positions along the rotational path. In another form of this embodiment, movement of the anodes along the rotational path results in selective coupling of one or more of the anodes to one or more conductor members configured to provide power to the anodes. In one aspect of this form, the one or more conductor members are configured to provide power to the anodes from a power supply. In another form of this embodiment, the apparatus further includes a support assembly engaged with opposite ends of the tank. In one aspect of this form, the apparatus further includes a drive member configured to rotate the tank relative to the support assembly. In yet a further aspect of this form, rotation of the tank relative to the support assembly results in movement of the anodes along the rotational path. In another form of this embodiment, the one or more cathodes are suspended in the chamber and the anodes are positioned proximate to a sidewall of the tank defining the chamber. In one aspect of this form, the apparatus further comprises a plurality of conductor members extending outside the chamber along the tank, and the conductor members are coupled with and extend between the anodes and a conductive plate positioned adjacent to an end of the tank. In a further aspect of this form, the conductive plate is segmented into a number of electrically isolated portions corresponding to the number of anodes and a respective anode is coupled to each of the portions. In another aspect of this form, the one or more cathodes are coupled with a conductive plate positioned adjacent to an end of the tank. In yet another form of this embodiment, the apparatus includes a bed of sacrificial conductive material positioned in the chamber, and the bed is defined by a plurality of pieces of the conductive material. In one aspect of this form, movement of the anodes along the rotational path results in movement of the anodes through the bed of sacrificial material.

In another embodiment, a kit includes an electrocoagulation apparatus including a tank defining a chamber; one or more cathodes positioned in the chamber; and a plurality of spaced apart anodes movable along a rotational path extending about the one or more cathodes, and instructions for adding a plurality of pieces of sacrificial conductive material to the chamber.

In another embodiment, a method for using an electrocoagulation apparatus including a tank defining a chamber; one or more cathodes positioned in the chamber; and a plurality of spaced apart anodes movable along a rotational path extending about the one or more cathodes includes: adding a number of pieces of sacrificial conductive material to the chamber of the tank; and moving the anodes along the rotational path. In one form of this embodiment, moving the anodes includes positioning respective ones of the anodes in and out of contact with the sacrificial conductive material. In one aspect of this form, the method further includes selectively powering on the anodes at a time when the anodes are approaching or in contact with the sacrificial conductive material and powering off the anodes at a time when the anodes are leaving or out of contact with the sacrificial material.

In yet another embodiment, a process for operating an electrocoagulation apparatus including a tank and a plurality of electrodes, includes adding a number of individual pieces of sacrificial material into the tank to create a bed of the sacrificial material; and moving at least one of the electrodes through the bed of sacrificial material. In one form, the process further includes providing power to the at least one electrode. In another form, the process further includes selectively powering on and off the at least one electrode. In still another form, the process further includes injecting a fluid into the tank through an inlet and releasing the fluid from the tank through an outlet. In one aspect of this form, moving the at least one electrode includes rotating the tank relative to the inlet and outlet.

In still another embodiment, an electrocoagulation apparatus includes a tank defining an internal chamber for receiving a fluid and a plurality of electrodes positioned in the tank. At least one of the electrodes is movable along a movement path and is selectively powerable depending on the position of the at least one electrode along the movement path. In one form of this embodiment, the apparatus further includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet and the at least one electrode is movable relative to the fluid inlet and fluid outlet. In one aspect of this form, the at least one electrode is coupled to the tank and the tank is rotatable relative to the fluid inlet and fluid outlet. In another form of this embodiment, the at least one electrode is selectively usable as an anode or a cathode depending on the position of the at least one electrode along the movement path. In yet another form of this embodiment, the at least one electrode is an anode and a second one of the electrodes is a cathode suspended in the internal chamber of the tank. In still another form of this embodiment, the tank and the at least one electrode are positioned relative to one another to provide an arrangement where a bed defined by a number of pieces of sacrificial material is positionable in the tank in selective contact with the at least one electrode as the at least one electrode is moved along the movement path. In one aspect of this form, the at least one electrode is movable through the bed when the bed is present as the at least one electrode is moved along the movement path.

The present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the disclosure is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

of the electrodes is a cathode suspended in the internal chamber of the tank. In still another form of this embodiment, the tank and the at least one electrode are positioned relative to one another to provide an arrangement where a bed defined by a number of pieces of sacrificial material is positionable in the tank in selective contact with the at least one electrode as the at least one electrode is moved along the movement path. In one aspect of this form, the at least one electrode is movable through the bed when the bed is present as the at least one electrode is moved along the movement path.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. An electrocoagulation apparatus, comprising:

a tank defining a chamber;

one or more cathodes positioned in the chamber; and

a plurality of spaced apart anodes movable along a rotational path extending about the one or more cathodes.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the anodes are selectively powerable when moved to different positions along the rotational path.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein movement of the anodes along the rotational path results in selective coupling of one or more of the anodes to one or more conductor members configured to provide power to the anodes.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the one or more conductor members are configured to provide power to the anodes from a power supply.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a support assembly engaged with opposite ends of the tank.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, further comprising a drive member configured to rotate the tank relative to the support assembly.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein rotation of the tank relative to the support assembly results in movement of the anodes along the rotational path.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more cathodes are suspended in the chamber and the anodes are positioned proximate to a sidewall of the tank defining the chamber.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, further comprising a plurality of conductor members extending outside the chamber along the tank, wherein the conductor members are coupled with and extend between the anodes and a conductive plate positioned adjacent to an end of the tank.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the conductive plate is segmented into a number of electrically isolated portions corresponding to the number of anodes and a respective anode is coupled to each of the portions.

11. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the one or more cathodes are coupled with a conductive plate positioned adjacent to an end of the tank.

12. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a bed of sacrificial conductive material positioned in the chamber, wherein the bed is defined by a plurality of pieces of the conductive material.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein movement of the anodes along the rotational path results in movement of the anodes through the bed of sacrificial material.

14. A kit, comprising the apparatus of claim 1 and instructions for adding a plurality of pieces of sacrificial conductive material to the chamber.

15. A method for using the apparatus of claim 1, comprising:

adding a number of pieces of sacrificial conductive material to the chamber of the tank; and

moving the anodes along the rotational path.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein moving the anodes includes positioning respective ones of the anodes in and out of contact with the sacrificial conductive material.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising selectively powering on the anodes at a time when the anodes are approaching or in contact with the sacrificial conductive material and powering off the anodes at a time when the anodes are leaving or out of contact with the sacrificial material.

18. A process for operating an electrocoagulation apparatus including a tank and a plurality of electrodes, comprising:

adding a number of individual pieces of sacrificial material into the tank to create a bed of the sacrificial material; and

moving at least one of the electrodes through the bed of sacrificial material.

19. The process of claim 18, further comprising providing power to the at least one electrode.

20. The process of claim 18, further comprising selectively powering on and off the at least one electrode.

21. The process of claim 18, further comprising injecting a fluid into the tank through an inlet and releasing the fluid from the tank through an outlet.

22. The process of claim 21, wherein moving the at least one electrode includes rotating the tank relative to the inlet and outlet.

23. An electrocoagulation apparatus, comprising:

a tank defining an internal chamber for receiving a fluid; and

a plurality of electrodes positioned in the tank;

wherein at least one of the electrodes is movable along a movement path and is selectively powerable depending on the position of the at least one electrode along the movement path.

24. The apparatus of claim 23, further comprising a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, and wherein the at least one electrode is movable relative to the fluid inlet and fluid outlet.

25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the at least one electrode is coupled to the tank and the tank is rotatable relative to the fluid inlet and fluid outlet.

26. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the at least one electrode is selectively usable as an anode or a cathode depending on the position of the at least one electrode along the movement path.

27. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the at least one electrode is an anode and a second one of the electrodes is a cathode suspended in the internal chamber of the tank.

28. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the tank and the at least one electrode are positioned relative to one another to provide an arrangement where a bed defined by a number of pieces of sacrificial material is positionable in the tank in selective contact with the at least one electrode as the at least one electrode is moved along the movement path.

29. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the at least one electrode is movable through the bed when the bed is present as the at least one electrode is moved along the movement path.