Soldering 101

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Sometimes when I'm doing copper sweat fittings, I just can't get the solder to flow into the joint (usually a vertical or overhead).  If the solder just bubbles and drips off, could that be an indication that I'm getting the joint too hot? Thanks.
Reply:could be. that or not clean enough.My experience has taught me that you don't need much heat.  Nice shiny  copper, flux coated.  heat the joint till the flux stops bubbling out.I'll purposely put a glob of solder on the top side of the joint, so the bubbling flux hits it.  That glob is my 'thermometer'  It'll be fluxed.  when the joint is hot, that glob will disappear.Too much heat will burn the flux off and defeat it's purpose.  Not enough, obviously will not get the joint hot enough.
Reply:If the joint is turning brown/black and the flux is smoking off, you won't be able to solder on it, get the joint to where the flux is bubbling off remove the heat and push solder onto the joint, if it's hot enough it'll flow right in, then apply heat to keep it warm enough and solder, if it isn't hot enough heat it and test again.
Reply:clean, clean, clean.  make sure it is clean such as using steel wool on it then the flux and you won't have any problems.
Reply:make sure that you arent hitting the joint directly with the torch, let the heat flow into the joint.The Welder Shop has great deals and reviews on Hobart, Miller and Lincoln Welders.