Darren,
I agree with Tom - only to say sometimes they don't slip - just break
Some especially the thin ones 1/8" and less don't come with the provision for a key, just a plain hole.
"What thickness would you suggest for general purpose use" Oh dear Darren that is a real difficult question to answer - not so sure there is a sensible answer.
I tend to use ones 1mm (.040") thick -no key slot. That's about the thinnest I use, and I use it for thin slots. If I need a thicker slot I go for an end mill - a 3mm dia end mill. So what happens if I need a 2mm slot normally I make do with a 1mm slot from the slitting saw or a 3mm slot from the end mill
Now there are slotting cutters that cut on the side and face, similar to the side and face cutters for horizontal mills - but they tend to be damn expensive.
That's my best take
DaveH
I agree with Tom - only to say sometimes they don't slip - just break
Some especially the thin ones 1/8" and less don't come with the provision for a key, just a plain hole.
"What thickness would you suggest for general purpose use" Oh dear Darren that is a real difficult question to answer - not so sure there is a sensible answer.
I tend to use ones 1mm (.040") thick -no key slot. That's about the thinnest I use, and I use it for thin slots. If I need a thicker slot I go for an end mill - a 3mm dia end mill. So what happens if I need a 2mm slot normally I make do with a 1mm slot from the slitting saw or a 3mm slot from the end mill
Now there are slotting cutters that cut on the side and face, similar to the side and face cutters for horizontal mills - but they tend to be damn expensive.
That's my best take
DaveH