In this study, the finite element technique was used to analyze the thermo-mechanical behavior of the submerged arc butt-welded plates. In order to investigate the effects of the welding parameters on the magnitude of the submerged arc welding process efficiency, the distortions obtained from the finite element simulation were compared with experimental results. For studying the effects of welding voltage, current and speed on SAW process, finite element model with acceptable accuracy was developed. Welding efficiency of each sample were estimated by calibration of the finite element model. The angular distortions were studied in carbon steel plates of 12 millimeter thickness. Statistical analysis shows that the welding voltage and speed have no significant effect on the SAW efficiency. It is observed that by increasing the welding current, the magnitude of the welding efficiency increased significantly.