The continuous chip is characterized by a general flow of the separated metal along the tool face. There may be some cracking of the chip, but in this case it usually does not extend far enough to cause fracture. This chip is formed at the higher cutting speeds when machining ductile materials. There is little tendency for the material to adhere to the tool. The continuous chip usually shows a good cutting ratio and tends to produce the optimum surface finish, but it may become an operating hazard.