Is this required for functionality?

I’ve used this cooler before in a different build, and since moving into a sfx case, I was wondering if this piece is actually required for functionality? To me it looks like a custom fan shroud with a pwm connector for the fan they have inside, but it doesn’t look like it would hinder the functionality of the pump itself. If I don’t need this piece would it be safe to have the other end to be exposed?

I’ve used this cooler before in a different build, and since moving into a sfx case, I was wondering if this piece is actually required for functionality? To me it looks like a custom fan shroud with a pwm connector for the fan they have inside, but it doesn’t look like it would hinder the functionality of the pump itself. If I don’t need this piece would it be safe to have the other end to be exposed?