Best way to remove excess solder from sweat fittings for re-use?

Question

I’m disassembling and reconfiguring part of my hydronic heating system and I want to re-use several high quality 1” brass sweat-connected ball valves that would cost about $30 each to replace. (I have more time than money.) The heating system is about 15 years old but the valves are in good shape. They were originally assembled with lead solder.
I’ve already reclaimed one of them after removal by reheating the cup till the solder melts, then wiping inside the cup with a wad of fine steel wool, which seems to attract excess solder pretty well and leaves a smooth surface that will accept a piece of new pipe without interference. I’m protecting the valve body from overheating with wet rags.
Is there a better way? Something that works better than steel wool? Add a little flux? Any tips would be appreciated.

jwh20 · Accepted Answer

What you're doing is what I've found to be most effective also.  Don't add any flux to the fittings, however, add some to the steel wool since you want the solder to cling to it and not the pipe fittings.
Keep in mind that you're not going to want to reuse these for any sort of drinking water use since they were originally soldered with lead-based solder and it's nearly impossible to get it all off.  But for your heating system use or other non-potable water use, no problem as long as they are in good shape.

Best way to remove excess solder from sweat fittings for re-use?

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