Hagen Tank braces

[Seth]

I have a question about the upper brace/frame thing on hagen tanks.

I really hate the look of the black frame and have always wanted a frameless tank.
Today I was washing out my 50 gallon freshwater tank and while trying to lift up the tank by the top frame, it started to come off! At first, I was like OH SHIT my tank! But then it didn't break or anything.

Do you guys think I could take of that frame? Does it serve a purpose or just there to look nice or ugly.

Thanks!