Fabrication of Tailored Low‐Carbon Steel Blanks With Spatially Varied Properties and Characterization via Modified Constrained Groove Pressing

A novel tailored blank of low‐carbon steel was fabricated using a modified constrained groove pressing process, which introduced variable die groove angles (15° and 45°) to impose controlled strain across different sections of the sheet. This approach enabled the creation of a single blank with spatially varied mechanical properties and microstructures. Following fabrication, a systematic experimental methodology was used to validate the differences in microstructure and mechanical properties. Tensile testing revealed a significant increase in ultimate strength with higher groove angles, rising from 304 MPa in the base sheet to 363 and 527 MPa in two sections of the tailored blank, respectively, accompanied by a reduction in ductility. Electron backscatter diffraction analysis confirmed substantial grain refinement, along with increased fractions of low‐angle grain boundaries and higher kernel average misorientation values, indicating enhanced subgrain formation and dislocation storage. Additionally, crystallographic texture evolved with strain, with sharper BCC cube, and goss components developing in the high‐strain regions, suggesting increased mechanical anisotropy. The method shows strong potential for applications in the automotive and aerospace industries. Future research will focus on optimizing die geometry and scaling the process for industrial production while maintaining a balance between strength and ductility.