Do these offer any benefits over hard plastic other than novelty? Were these tested over an extended period of time? Will they eventually sag, warp or even fall off their press fittings?
There are many advantages of that Flex Series offer over the rigid models.
We outline some of them on this thread
The New Flex Series Random Flow Generator® https://vividcreativeaquatics.com/product-category/flex-series/ Flexibility - Wide compatibility RFG Flex Series Nozzle will fit genuine Loc-Line® brand modular hose but also adapt to fit other similar sized modular hose fittings. The RFG Flex Series...
www.reef2reef.com
One thing they both share however is the flow they create. both the rigid and the flex series share the same patented internal design that the RFG is known for and both create the same randomization effect.
Beyond that, the Flex offers a few key advantages
1 - Extreme Durability
The Flex series may be the most durable piece of equipment you may add on your tank. it is, in orders of magnitude,
more durable than the OG Rigid RFG, simply because it is impossible to break, crake or snap.
2 - More compatible
Because it's not rigid, and does not require a specific size and shape of connector, the flex series can simply stretch and conform to different styles of modular hose. It no longer requires genuine Loc-Line and has the ability to connect to any modular hose of similar size. One of the biggest challenges with the OG Rigid Model was that it had to be genuine Loc-Line or one of our adapters otherwise it simply wouldn't fit, and could possible break when trying to force it on to non-Loc-Line branded hose.
3 - Better Flow
For a couple of reasons some of which include a smoother finish for less friction, the RFG-Flex Series have better throughput. As much as 5% to 10% more. We've actually had reports of users who've upgraded that ultimately had to turn their return pumps down because the new model is allowing far more flow to go through
4 - Wider Flow Pattern
In high flow scenarios, the nozzle actually flexes slightly causing the flow pattern to widen out even more. This has the effect of making a more wavemaker like motion in the tank which ultimately can actually move a larger volume of water throughout the tank.
There are other advantages such as the Flex is easy to clean, but those are the main 4 that I think most users will see the most advantages
>>Were these tested over an extended period of time
We have been personally using the RFG Flex Series in our own tanks for upward of 9 months now. Both before and during the in-tank testing. We did put the RFG flex through a series of tests including chemical tests such as a three day soak in 50/50 bleach solution, straight vinegar, and one test 3-day with high concentration citric acid - all three tests had zero effect on the material.
We also did extensive UV testing with the particular material that we're using which included leaving them under UV heat lamps for periods of time. We also ran a test her eint eh Arizona Summer where we placed a few out on a brick wall during the entire summer – at the end of wich the RFG nozzle was the same as the day we set it out there, all be it, a bit more dusty.
EDIT - forgot to add, that during the tank testing, we ran a number of ICP testes both before and during. We watched carefully for any changes or anomalies in the results, and saw nothing that wasn't expected.
>> Will they eventually sag, warp or even fall off their press fittings
to date we have not had any reports of this, and we do not expect this to be an issue.
Material is extremely durable and resilient, and resistant anything it may encounter in the reef tank.
As far as holding on to the fittings, we've put them through a number of tests including ultra high flow tests with as much as 3 ot45 times the Suggested Optimal flow rating for each nozzle.
With that said, we did reengineer the he connectors and all the flex series nozzles. Although they share the same internal design as the OG Rigid Models, the connectors are different
Hopefully that answers all of your questions period however should you have a few more or always happy to answer any questions you might have regarding our products
