What causes slitting blade mistracking?

[benmychree]

You are probably right.

However, McMaster seems to call them High-Speed Steel Slitting Saws independent on the number of teeth.

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Regardless of definition, a fine tooth saw is not the best tool for deep cuts, there is not room for a lot of chips, hence the use of coarse tooth saws.

 

[WobblyHand]

Regardless of definition, a fine tooth saw is not the best tool for deep cuts, there is not room for a lot of chips, hence the use of coarse tooth saws.

Yes, I learned this the hard way! Used a 28T saw, remembered to set the pulleys to slow speed mode, and was able to make the cut.

 

[Toolmaker51]

Unlike a circular saw, set for minimum clear depth, a slitting blade runs best a decent distance under the part, with sufficient mist coolant to eject all chips re-entering cut (conventional). Slitting though, is normally reserved for thinner material. Either way, the cut must be rapid enough to engage material, there is possibility of heat distortion.
Storage of the blade can be an issue too. When some of the teeth are not right, they'll wander. Just like a worn bandsaw blade.