TCB Metal Works

Resources

Guides, articles, and answers from the TCB Metal Works team — practical knowledge on fabrication, materials, and custom enclosures.

Blog & Insights

Latest Articles

Expert guidance on fabrication, materials, and engineering.
More articles are added regularly.

Finished welded wire mesh in reinforced steel frames, fabricated by TCB Metal Works
Process · 4 min read

The Zoo Enclosure Manufacturing Process: Design to Installation

Read article
Precision-fabricated structural steel connections on a TCB Metal Works zoo enclosure
Buyer's Guide · 4 min read

How to Choose the Right Zoo Enclosure Manufacturer

Read article
Bolted steel bracket joining a timber roof beam to a structural steel post above welded mesh, fabricated by TCB Metal Works
Design · 3 min read

10 Common Mistakes in Zoo Enclosure Design

Read article
Precision-fabricated stainless steel animal enclosure bars and gates by TCB Metal Works
Materials · 4 min read

Choosing the Right Materials for Zoo Enclosures

Read article
A complete zoo enclosure system — roof structure, welded mesh walls and keeper door, fabricated by TCB Metal Works
Zoo Design · 5 min read

How to Design a Safe Zoo Enclosure: 10 Essential Features

Read article
Large weldments industrial fabrication
Industrial · 3 min read

Optimize Large Weldments: Industrial Fabrication Solutions

Read article
Different grades of steel
Materials · 4 min read

Understanding Different Grades of Steel & Their Applications

Read article
Bending moment calculation diagram
Engineering · 5 min read

How to Calculate Bending Moment

Read article
FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to the questions we hear most. Don't see yours? Get in touch.

What types of metal fabrication does TCB Metal Works offer?
We provide structural steel, stainless steel, welding, sheet metal fabrication, CNC plasma cutting, CNC horizontal machining, and 300-ton press brake forming — plus our flagship specialty, custom zoo and animal enclosures. See our Solutions for the full range.
Do you build custom, one-off projects?
Yes. Every project is engineered to your exact specifications. Whether it's a single custom part, a structural build, or a complete animal enclosure, we take it from drawings or a concept through to a finished, installed result.
What makes your zoo and animal enclosures different?
Our enclosures use TIG-welded aluminium and stainless steel for corrosion resistance and hygiene, with containment engineered around species behaviour, welfare, and public safety — built to institutional standards. Learn more on our Zoo Enclosures page.
What materials do you work with?
Carbon and structural steel, stainless steel, and aluminium, among others. We'll recommend the right material for your project's strength, corrosion, hygiene, and finish requirements.
What areas do you serve?
We're based at 1600 Layard Ave, Racine, WI, and serve clients throughout the region — and nationwide for specialized fabrication and enclosure work.
How do I get a quote?
Send us your drawings or describe your project through our contact form, or call 224-766-9928. We typically respond within one business day.
Guides & Downloads

Practical Guides

In-depth guides and downloadable references — currently in production.

GuideStructural Steel Beams

Shapes, grades, how beams are sized to AISC 360-22, connections & fabrication. Read the guide →

Coming SoonMaterial Selection Guide

Choosing the right steel, stainless, or aluminium for your build.

Coming SoonEnclosure Planning Checklist

What to prepare before commissioning a zoo or animal enclosure.

Coming SoonFabrication Spec Sheet

How to prepare drawings and specs for an accurate quote.

Still Have Questions?

Talk to Our Team

Our specialists are happy to answer your questions and help scope your project.