Scouring

scouring [′skau̇r·iŋ]

(engineering)

Physical or chemical attack on process equipment surfaces, as in a furnace or fluid catalytic cracker.

(geology)

An erosion process resulting from the action of the flow of air, ice, or water.

glacial scour

(materials)

attrition

(mechanical engineering)

Mechanical finishing or cleaning of a hard surface by using an abrasive and low pressure.

(textiles)

Removal of grease and dirt from wool.

The cleaning of fabric before the dyeing step.

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scouring

Using a wood float, in a circular motion, to smooth freshly applied mortar or plaster.

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Scouring 

the heating of cotton and linen fabrics in solution of alkalies at atmospheric or increased pressure to remove impurities and to prepare the fabrics for bleaching, dyeing, or printing. The most effective method is dynamic scouring, which is performed at atmospheric pressure and about 90°C by continuous movement of the fabric through a solution containing sodium hydroxides, sodium bisulfite, and sodium silicate.