In the present work, the feasibility of creating low strength zones in flanges of tailored hardened 22MnB5 is evaluated by means of the combining high and low thermal conductivity tool materials. Finite Element (FE) simulations are performed in order to determine the temperature distribution in sheets when different tool materials and cooling strategies are applied. In addition, the feasibility of reducing the stress acting on tools during hard cutting of 22MnB5 steels is assessed in case of punching fully and partially hardened materials.