Thermadyne Industries Inc., a maker of cutting and welding products, is launching its TurboTorch line of air-fuel and oxy-fuel products as a separate operating unit. The change is a result of TurboTorch’s desire to expand its market share by increasing focus on new product development, customer service and support, and better service to the plumbing and HVAC market.

Paul Minter will head the new business unit, and has been named vice president and general manager of TurboTorch. For the last year, Minter has been the leader of Thermadyne’s Specialty Markets group.