In this research project four welding procedures used to rebuild worn shafts in sugar cane mills were analyzed: two of submerged arc welding (SAW) and two of flux cored arc welding (FCAW). Crack tip opening displacement (CTOD) for all weldings were determined according to ASTM E 1290 – 89. In CTOD tests pre-cracking stage a fatigue device was used to generate cracks in three points bend specimens SE (B). Load and displacement data were registered using two data acquisition systems. Critical crack tip opening displacement (CTODc) of the welding procedure was determined and the one with better properties and smaller welding defects was pointed out like the best choice.