An apparatus, system, and method isolate anodic ion generation from precipitation and flocculation with target metal ions. Hyper-turbulent flow conditions in an ion generator confine reaction and flocculation to a precipitator downstream. Shear forces in a laminar boundary layer at a cylindrical anode separate anodic (sacrificial) ions from target ions effectively eliminating agglomeration in the bulk flow traveling in a hyper-turbulent flow regime through the generator. A precipitator downstream provides a dwell time for reaction between ions and initial agglomeration of reaction products therefrom. A controller, limiting electrical current through the generator (of anodic ions), optimizes operation without overdriving current, while virtually eliminating fouling of the anode. The system resists co-habitation of ion generation and precipitation and their distinct, respective flow regimes of hyper-turbulent and laminar flow. Physically separated spaces and unique conditions isolate processes, eliminating conventional problems.