In the machining process there are a number of undesirable factors that can influence the quality of the end product. Amongst this range of factors, the study of the mechanism for the formation of the false cutting edge (PCA) was chosen as the main focus of this work. To help understand this study, a bibliographical survey was carried out on the cutting conditions necessary for this phenomenon to occur. Factors such as: cutting temperature, cutting speed, workpiece material, magnetic field, plastic flow, adhesion of the workpiece material to the tool and the appearance of micro-cracks in the workpiece were proven to have an influence on PCA formation.