Wall Panels for Modular Operating Theaters: A Complete Selection Guide
Updated: April 2025 | Author: ICARELIFE Team
This blog explores the main wall panel options for modular operating rooms (MOTs) and helps you choose the most suitable one for your project’s technical and budgetary requirements.
Major Wall Panel Types in the Market
1. Stainless Steel Panels
- Highest durability and longest service life
- Resistant to harsh cleaning chemicals and disinfectants
- Commonly used in sterile corridors and isolation zones
Stainless steel is preferred for its unmatched resistance to corrosion and mechanical damage. It is often selected in operating rooms where aseptic protocols are strictly enforced and mechanical impacts are likely.
2. Powder-Coated GI (Galvanized Iron) Panels
- Offers excellent durability and aesthetics at a lower cost
- Multiple RAL color choices available
- Good for general-purpose operating rooms and ICUs
Powder-coated GI steel is one of the most popular choices due to its cost-efficiency, sleek appearance, and resistance to moisture and scratches. Compatible with modular medical gas and monitor panel integration.
3. High-Pressure Laminate (HPL)
- Decorative, impact-resistant, and economical
- Ideal for retrofit and cost-sensitive projects
- Requires more frequent maintenance in high-use areas
4. Glass Panels (Tempered or Toughened)
- Premium appearance and easy cleaning
- Perfect for hybrid OTs and clean imaging zones
- Option for printed graphics or branding
Glass surfaces deliver visual elegance with uncompromising hygiene. With back-painted or etched surfaces, they also offer branding and instructional value.
5. Solid Surface (e.g., Corian®, LG HI-MACS®)
- Completely seamless finish — no visible joints
- Non-porous, antimicrobial, and moldable
- Ideal for clean zones, OR scrubbing areas, and labs
Although more expensive, solid surface panels provide a high-tech and ultra-hygienic solution that excels in demanding applications.
6. Sandwich Panels / PVC-Coated Panels
- Lightweight and quick to install
- Best suited for temporary or budget-driven clean areas
- Limited fire and impact resistance
Key Factors to Evaluate
| Selection Criteria | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Hygiene | Surface smoothness, joint sealing, chemical resistance |
| Compliance | Fire rating (Class B, A2), ISO 14644 cleanliness, EN standards |
| Integration | Ease of installing gas terminals, accessories, and OT equipment |
| Cost | Total installed cost including accessories, cleaning, and maintenance |
| Lifecycle | Panel longevity and future maintenance requirements |
Application Scenarios & ICARELIFE Recommendations
- Standard Modular OR: Powder-Coated GI Panels
- Premium Surgical Suites: Glass Panels or Solid Surface Panels
- ICUs and Infection Zones: Stainless Steel Panels
- Cost-Limited Hospitals: PVC-Coated Sandwich Panels
Conclusion: Tailor Your Wall System to Your Project Goals
Modular operating theaters are highly customized spaces, and wall panels form their structural and functional backbone. Whether you’re building for performance, compliance, or appearance, ICARELIFE helps contractors and hospitals achieve the perfect balance between hygiene, durability, and design. Our portfolio supports everything from economic builds to flagship surgical centers.
Ready to explore wall panel options tailored to your needs? Talk to our experts today.
