As its name suggests, the thread tensioner on long arm machines maintains proper thread tension to help prevent backlash and resulting loops on the quilt back.
There are two types of tensioners: 
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Rotary Type
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Disc-Type
The disc-type adjusts the tension as the thickness of the thread strand changes. Experienced quilters prefer the industrial-grade disc-style tensioner used on APQS machines. They are capable of handling any kind of thread, including delicate, decorative and variegated threads with no worry about stretching, stressing or breaking the thread.
Worried about keeping perfect tension on hand-dyes or the slurbs found in some textured specialty threads? No problem. You can use virtually any kind of thread, from heavy polyesters to fussy cottons, when tension is regulated by the disc-style tensioner. Plus, the simplicity of the APQS tensioner ensures many years of trouble-free service.
Benefits:
- Helps prevent thread backlash and loops.
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Gives you the freedom to use any kind of thread - including delicate, specialty and decorative threads.
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Adjusts tension as the thickness of the thread changes to prevent stretching, stressing or breaking the thread.
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Simple, trouble-free design.