Difference between Energy Minimization and Equilibration

[Tahmeed]

What is the exact difference between energy minimization and equilibration in a molecular dynamics simulation since both brings the system to the local energy minima?

 

[Khashishi]

If the system is lossy, then the equilibrium is the minimum energy state. But if energy is conserved or energy is coming in from the boundaries, then equilibrium doesn't have to be a minimum energy state.