Chipbreaker

Metal chips are hot,[1] sharp,[2] and can spin at high speeds, especially if they get caught in machinery.

Breaking up the chips into smaller pieces is an important safety feature since long chips that get caught in people and machinery can lead to serious workplace accidents.

It can also damage tools, workpieces and machinery, and make removal of the finished product more difficult.

[4] For example, a high-positive rake angle will help to make shorter chips.

On roughing cutters or milled files, the cutting edge is given a profile with chipbreakers to break the chips.