An improvement for a self-balancing shielded bipolar ionizer (U.S. Pat. No. 6,002,573),
which uses pressurized air or nitrogen to increase performance, extend the operating
distance range, and reduce cleaning frequency. An air assist assembly is inserted
into the ion generation cavity, which directs pressurized air or nitrogen past
the electrodes. In applications where little natural airflow exists, air assist
technology is particularly useful. Ions are blown toward the target. This directs
the ions to where they are needed, and delivers ions faster. Useful operating distances
are increased. Faster delivery minimizes ion losses due to recombination. Furthermore,
pure pressurized air protects the electrodes from impurities in the environmental
air. Less chemical growth affects electrode performance. Hence, the ionizer exhibits
more stable performance, plus the need for electrode cleaning is minimized.