Special consideration of welded joints is needed for this material since the heat affected zone (HAZ) formed
as a result of the heat input by the welding shows different properties, especially the creep behaviour is
different from those of base material and weld metal. The welding of the martensitic steels can cause major
problems in service due to the formation of a heat affected zone with low creep resistance (fine grained or
intercritical zone). It represents the weakest link in weldments and can lead to premature failure of the
component.