Can a metal fuel filter be cut open with a rotary tool without exploding?

Sorry if this is a dumb question.... But I replaced a fuel filter on an 04 Mustang. I'd like to cut it open to inspect for debris inside. Can that be done with a cutting wheel on a rotary tool, or would the fuel/fumes be a dangerous combination for the sparking of the cutting wheel? Granted, I know sparks and fuel would make a fire... but I feel sure other's have wanted to see inside of a replaced fuel filter before.... so how did they do it?

Thanks

I'm no expert!! But I would use a hacksaw to cut it open slowly after letting it drain out & air out 4 awhile. No sparks & doing it outside. This is just an idea!! I'm not saying this is the right technique!

Unlikely to explode but guaranteed to catch fire. Even if dried out the media would probably ignite.

A large tubing cutter would work but they're kinda spendy. Can opener might work if it'll catch on the crimp.

Hello,

I hacksaw not that expensive. I would use it.

An oil filter cutter might work, depending on the diameter of the fuel filter you're working with. I have this one at work:

www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000CP8DFW

Won't catch anything on fire, and far less likely to introduce debris/contaminants into the filter.

If you submerge the filter in distilled water you could split the rolled edge in four places from the front with some big tin snips, then cut off the top of the case using the tin snips having access by the front cuts without the fear of it catching fire. The tin snips should not produce a lot of chips and if you do this in a clean bucket any debris found would have to have come from the filter.