Vicker's microhardness tester (Make: Shimadzu, Japan and
Model: HMV-2T) was used for measuring the hardness distribution across the welded joint along with mid thickness
region with a load of 0.5 N. The specimen for metallographic
examination was sectioned to the required size from the joint
comprising weld metal, HAZ (heat-affected zone), and base
metal regions, and polished using different grades of emery
papers. Final polishing was done using the diamond compound (particle size of 1 mm) on the disc polishing machine.
The specimens were etched with 2% of Nital solution to reveal
the microstructural features of joints. Microstructural examination was carried out using an optical microscope (Make:
MEJI, Japan; Model: MIL-7100) incorporated with an image