This is 1/2 of the fixture over my fuge...Main body is aluminum, "side cap" (facing you) is plastic, reflector is stainless steel as are the bulb mounts...
I got the 4X55 (which is 48" long) and cut it in half...I then "reassembled" 1/2, one transformer, 2X10k bulbs and placed it over my fuge...
I took the other 1/2 and used the transformer, wiring and reflector as a "retrofit" for actinics in my reef canopy...(I did replace the bulbs with true actinics)
Over all, I ended up with two-2X55 pc light "sets" for slightly over $100...
The lack of end caps concerned me for a bit...but I've come to the conclusion that it's no big deal....I can show you pics of lots of "burned out" end caps (I think they may actually "hold" moisture in causing corrosion) "IF" I do end up with a problem with the "direct connect" I can cut an inch or two of wire off and crimp on a new terminal (cheap)...
They've been running 8-9 months now and I have had no problem with corrosion, or heat build up, or burning out, like I've heard about the LOA lights...
I still think they aer a great "value" for PC lighting...As long as you know what you are getting and you understand their limitations...
As far as running them over a reef...You have the same PC, VHO, T5... vs. MH limitations...Obviously, the "recomendation" would go to the MH set up...