can't get joint hot enough

[backwaterdogs]

Hi,

My last fitting on this job of mine is connecting the supply, so lots of copper.

The joint is all 3/4" and there is a ball valve about 8 or 9 inches away. I've tried to drain all the water out of the pipes and have really been pouring the heat to this damn thing, but can't the solder to melt and draw in!

Was going to try a different fuel ( using propane) but wasn't sure if thats the problem or not. Other problem the joint is close to joist and am burning them!

thanks!

[Jerome2877]

Try opening taps or valves to allow air flow while your soldering. Mapp gas burns much hotter than propane, maybe try that.

[Gary Swart]

There is still some moisture in there. It doesn't have to a lot and it doesn't have to be really close to the joint. Heated copper will turn that moisture to steam and you're screwed. You've got to get the water all out.

[LLigetfa]

There is still some moisture in there...

That'd be my guess too. Usually you can hear it crackle. I've had to use compressed air before to get all the water out. Never did try the bread trick.

To save burning the wood, there is a flame resistant cloth that can be used or simply bend and trim a piece of tin to fit.

[backwaterdogs]

yep, you guys are right..there was some water left...after getting it all out and dry as I could, it seemed to solder just fine.

However, I can't pressurize it yet as now I'm stuck on the faucet trim...ill post that in another thread, thanks!

[hj]

quote; after getting it all out and dry as I could, it seemed to solder just fine.

Now all you have to worry about is whether the "steam" contaminated the joint so the solder did not flow in properly.