Hello Sean, I agree with your views. Examples of oversimplified modelling of processing plants by both academics and practioners can be found in biological wastewater treatment as well. Recently, a team of academics "experts" applied black box modelling to compare a full scale conventional activated sludge (CAS) unit with the so called membrane bioreactor (MBR) activated sludge version (with membranes to replace the clarifier) operating in parallel at the same sewage treatment plant. This comparison was presented and discussed in the MBR group on LinlkedIn. From reading the summary paper, it was clear that the "experts" didn't bother about the key operating parameters (set by the operators) of both systems such as MLVSS, F/M, SRT, DO profile, ... which largely determine their performance in terms of conversion rates, energy consumption and waste sludge production. In other words, the black box modellers did not open the boxes as to verify if both operating systems would be comparable. Most likely lemons have been compared with apples. Regards, Bruno

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Hello Sean,

I agree with your views. Examples of oversimplified modelling of processing plants by both academics and practioners can be found in biological wastewater treatment as well. Recently, a team of academics "experts" applied black box modelling to compare a full scale conventional activated sludge (CAS) unit with the so called membrane bioreactor (MBR) activated sludge version (with membranes to replace the clarifier) operating in parallel at the same sewage treatment plant. This comparison was presented and discussed in the MBR group on LinlkedIn. From reading the summary paper, it was clear that the "experts" didn't bother about the key operating parameters (set by the operators) of both systems such as MLVSS, F/M, SRT, DO profile, ... which largely determine their performance in terms of conversion rates, energy consumption and waste sludge production. In other words, the black box modellers did not open the boxes as to verify if both operating systems would be comparable. Most likely lemons have been compared with apples.

Regards,

Bruno