How to choose the size of RB-26 welding electrode is often an important question for welders and engineers when facing welding work.
Not a few welding results fail due to the use of electrodes that do not match the material thickness or working position.
In fact, RB-26 is one of the most popular KOBELCO electrodes in Indonesia because of its ease of use and quality results.
Understanding the correct RB-26 size selection guide not only helps produce neat and strong welded joints, but also increases time efficiency, costs, and work safety in the field.
Getting to Know KOBELCO RB-26 Welding Electrode
In the world of welding, RB-26 is one of the most popular and widely used types of welding electrode, especially in Indonesia. This product is manufactured by KOBELCO, a global brand from Japan known for its high quality and consistent weld results.
RB-26 is a rutile type electrode with easy ignition characteristics, easy slag peeling, and produces a smooth weld appearance.
For this reason, this welding electrode is the main choice for various fabrication, construction, and thin plate repair jobs.
As a manufacturer of KOBELCO welding electrode, PT Intan Pertiwi Industri ensures that RB-26 welding electrode products are available in various sizes to suit project needs.
Why is Welding Electrode Size Selection Important?
Many novice welders are still confused about why welding electrode size is important. In fact, electrode size selection significantly impacts:
Weld Joint Quality – If the size does not match the material thickness, the weld may crack or not penetrate completely.
Time & Cost Efficiency – The right electrode size makes the process faster, saves energy, and reduces electrode consumption.
Ease of Welding – The proper size makes it easier to control the arc, especially for inexperienced welders.
Incorrect selection of RB-26 size can result in weak welds or even failure to function, especially in construction projects.
Available RB-26 Welding Electrode Variants
RB-26 Welding Electrode Diameter 2.0 mm
This size is the smallest and is generally used for very thin materials, under 2 mm.
Common applications:
Light welding work such as cans, thin drums, or small equipment
Hobby and educational project for basic welding training
Repair of thin components requiring a fine arc
Advantages: very easy to control, suitable for beginner welders, and minimizes the risk of penetration on thin materials.
RB-26 Welding Electrode Diameter 2.6 mm
This size is suitable for materials with a thickness of 2–4 mm. It is typically used for:
Thin plate repair
Household work or small workshop
Light fabrication such as fences, canopies and light construction
Advantages: easy to ignite, suitable for beginners, low penetration so as to minimize the risk of penetration on thin plates.
RB-26 Welding Electrode Diameter 3.2 mm
This is the most popular size because it can be used for a wide variety of jobs. It's suitable for plate thicknesses of 4–8 mm. Its applications include:
General construction (buildings, light steel frames, agricultural equipment)
Intermediate fabrication
Simple machine and tool repairs
Pros: Balanced penetration, speed, and a clean finish. This diameter is often recommended as an “all-around size.”
RB-26 Welding Electrode Diameter 4.0 mm
This size is used for materials above 8 mm, such as:
Heavy fabrication
Bridge construction and steel structures
High-stress industrial jobs
Advantages: provides deep penetration, suitable for joining thick plates, and efficient in filling large gaps.
RB-26 Welding Electrode Diameter 5.0 mm
The largest size, used specifically for very thick materials, above 12 mm, which require maximum connection strength.
Common applications:
Heavy industrial projects such as piles, factory steel frames, and ships
Structures with high dynamic loads (large bridges, crane frames, and port construction)
Advantages: able to channel high heat for maximum penetration, very efficient in processing thick plates, and accelerates the filling of gaps in wide joints.
How to Choose the Size of RB-26 Welding Electrode
In choosing the size of RB-26 welding electrode, the main factors that need to be considered are the thickness of the material and the type of welding.
The thicker the material being welded, the larger the electrode diameter required to achieve optimal penetration and fusion.
This RB type electrode is also designed to be flexible so that it can be used in horizontal positions or in various other welding positions.
1. Pay attention to the thickness of the material
Material thickness is the most important factor in determining the size of RB-26 welding electrode. The thicker the steel plate or material to be welded, the larger the electrode diameter required for maximum arc penetration.
Thin plates (2–4 mm) should use RB-26 with a diameter of 2.6 mm. This size minimizes the risk of material holes or distortion due to excessive heat.
Medium plate (4–8 mm) is more ideal to use RB-26 diameter 3.2 mm. This size is balanced, able to penetrate deep enough without making the weld too thick.
Thick plates (>8 mm) should use RB-26 with a diameter of 4.0 mm. This large size is capable of producing strong penetration and sturdy weld joints for heavy structures.
By paying attention to the thickness of the material, you can avoid welding failures due to electrode that is too small or too large.
2. Adjust to the Welding Position
Besides thickness, the welding position also influences the electrode size selection. In flat or horizontal positions, almost any RB-26 size can be used, depending on the material requirements.
However, for vertical or overhead positions, electrode with a smaller diameter (2.6 mm or 3.2 mm) is more recommended.
Why is this? Because small-diameter electrode is easier to control and produces a stable arc in difficult positions. This helps welders maintain quality welds even when working in uncomfortable positions.
3. Set the Welding Current (Amperes) Correctly
The electrode size must always be adjusted to the welding current setting. If the current is too low, the electrode will not penetrate properly and the weld will be brittle. If the current is too high, the weld will become porous, excessive spatter will occur, and the material will be easily damaged.
Ideal ampere guide for RB-26:
2.6 mm → 60–90 A
3.2 mm → 90–130 A
4.0 mm → 130–160 A
By adjusting the current according to the electrode size, the welder can get a stable arc, sufficient penetration, and neater weld results.
4. Customize with Project Application
The type of project being worked on also determines the most appropriate electrode size:
Light repairs and small fabrications such as fences, metal racks, or drums → use RB-26 2.6 mm.
General construction and medium fabrication such as light steel frames, agricultural machinery, or medium-sized tanks → use RB-26 3.2 mm.
Heavy fabrication and steel structures such as bridges, piles, or heavy equipment → use RB-26 4.0 mm.
By adjusting the electrode size to the project application, the welding results will be more in line with the required strength and safety standards.
5. Prioritize Welder Comfort
While there are clear technical guidelines, ultimately, the welder's comfort also plays a big role. Many experienced welders choose a specific electrode size because they are used to handling it.
For example, some people find it more comfortable to use a 3.2 mm diameter for almost all applications because it is considered more flexible.
Therefore, after understanding the technical standards, welders still need to try and adapt to their personal work style.
The combination of theory and field experience will result in more consistent and high-quality welding.
By considering the material thickness, welding position, amperage, project application, and welder comfort, the correct selection of the RB-26 size can be made.
As a result, the welded joints will be stronger, neater, and more efficient according to your project needs.
Practical Tips When Using RB-26 Welding Electrode
Adjust the Electric Current (Ampere)
2.6 mm: 60–90 A
3.2 mm: 90–130 A
4.0 mm: 130–160 A
Maintain Electrode Angle – Ideally 15–30° to the workpiece.
Speed Control – Don't go too fast to ensure adequate penetration, but avoid going too slow to avoid buildup.
Use a Stable Machine – RB-26 can be used on AC or DC, flexible for various welding machines.
Butuh referensi produk lainnya dan diameter yang tersedia? Jelajahi koleksi kawat las kobe steel untuk RB-series.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using too large a electrode on a thin plate → causes penetration or distortion.
Using too small a electrode on a thick plate → weak connection, shallow penetration.
Ignoring the ampere setting → the weld will be porous or the slag will be difficult to peel off.
Not paying attention to the cleanliness of the material surface → even though RB-26 is easy to use, dirt can still reduce the quality of the weld.
Choose RB-26 According to Project Needs
Choosing the right RB-26 welding electrode size isn't easy. Factors like plate thickness, welding position, and application type must be considered to ensure strong, clean, and efficient welds.
Thin plate → 2.6 mm
Medium plate → 3.2 mm
Thick plate → 4.0 mm
By understanding this guide, you can get optimal welding results.
For technical consultation and ordering of genuine KOBELCO RB-26 welding electrode, contact PT Intan Pertiwi Industri now.
FAQ – How to Choose the Size of RB-26 Welding Electrode
1. What sizes of RB-26 welding electrode are available?
RB-26 is available in 2.0 mm, 2.6 mm, 3.2 mm, 4.0 mm, and 5.0 mm diameters. Each size is designed to suit plate thickness and welding application requirements, from light fabrication to heavy construction.
2. When is it best to use 2.6 mm RB-26 electrode?
The 2.6 mm size is suitable for use on materials with a thickness of 2–4 mm, such as vehicle body repairs, fences, canopies, and light fabrication. The advantage is that this electrode is easy to ignite and has a minimal risk of penetrating thin plates.
3. What are the advantages of 3.2 mm RB-26 electrode?
The 3.2 mm size is the most popular due to its versatility. It's suitable for plate thicknesses of 4–8 mm, ranging from general construction to medium-sized fabrication and even machine repair. Its advantages include neat welds, adequate penetration, and efficient work speed.
4. Can the RB-26 be used for all welding positions?
Yes, the RB-26 is an all-position electrode. This means it can be used in horizontal, vertical, and overhead positions. However, for difficult positions like vertical or overhead, a smaller diameter (2.0 mm or 2.6 mm) is easier to control.
