refoiling

Refoiling is a process used in various contexts, primarily referring to the act of reapplying a reflective or protective surface to an object. In the realm of lighting, refoiling often involves restoring the reflective coating inside light fixtures, such as parabolic aluminized reflector (PAR) lamps or older fluorescent fixture reflectors. Over time, the original reflective material, typically aluminum, can degrade due to heat, moisture, or physical damage, leading to a decrease in light output and efficiency. Refoiling aims to bring back the original reflectivity of the surface, thereby improving the fixture's performance. This can be achieved through techniques like electroplating, sputtering, or applying specialized reflective paints or films.

Another application of refoiling is found in the repair or refurbishment of mirrors. While not a complete mirror re-creation, it can refer to the process of recoating the reflective surface of a damaged or tarnished mirror. This is particularly relevant for older, high-quality mirrors where replacing the entire unit might be undesirable or impractical. The original silvering or aluminum backing is removed, and a new reflective layer is applied, restoring the mirror's clarity and reflective quality.

In a more general sense, refoiling can also be used metaphorically to describe the act of revitalizing or restoring something that has lost its original luster or effectiveness. This could apply to anything from personal motivation to the performance of a business. The core concept remains the replenishment of a depleted or degraded element to achieve a renewed state.