This paper considers the effect of processing route on the final microstructure hardness and tensile behavior of a 980 MPa third generation advanced high strength steel (3G-AHSS). Of particular interest is the use of a hot stamping thermal schedule that mimics a quench and partition (Q&P) heat treatment process normally used to produce Q&P grade steel sheet. For comparison purposes, samples were also produced using a quench and temper (Q&T) processing history. The experiments were performed using a Gleeble 3500 thermo-mechanical simulator system. Large coupons were produced using both processing routes from which microstructure, hardness, and tensile samples were extracted. Mechanical properties results were compared with the as-received material. Both processing routes resulted in strength levels that were close to that of the as-received material; however, the total elongation of the Q&P processed samples was 52% higher than that of the Q&T processed material.

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