We are delighted to announce that, in cooperation with the Estonian Transport Administration, we are carrying out a pilot project in which sinusoidal milling will be used in Estonia for the first time on the Tallinn–Tartu–Võru–Luhamaa road, between km 141.647 and 155.532.

Sinusoidal milling is already used in the Nordic countries, including Norway, Sweden and Finland. The process involves milling a 3–5 mm-deep groove beneath the lane markings so that the applied thermoplastic marking remains level with the asphalt surface, rather than sitting above it as before. This technology minimises potential damage caused by snowploughs during winter road maintenance and extends the service life of road markings. Longer-lasting markings also reduce the environmental footprint of road construction and maintenance.

In longitudinal profile, the milled groove resembles a sine wave. When a vehicle drives over the line, it produces a warning vibration and sound. This effect helps prevent traffic fatalities by alerting drivers when they begin to drift out of their lane.

We look forward to seeing how this innovative road-marking solution is received and what its long-term impact will be. We hope that sinusoidal milling will become widely used throughout Estonia thanks to its life-saving and environmentally friendly properties.

• Client: Estonian Transport Administration
• Project period: July 2023