Plasma melting treatment technology has great advantages in the field of radioactive waste treatment, but the high cost and high energy consumption of the system hinder its further promotion. Dc arc plasma torch plays a key role as the core equipment in the whole system, and the development of high-performance plasma torch helps to improve the competitiveness of this technology in the market. Numerical simulation by computer is an important tool to study plasma phenomena. This paper mainly reviews the current research status of numerical simulation of DC arc plasma torches. Starting from the basic theory of DC arc plasma torches, this paper introduces the basic process and physical characteristics of the arc, as well as the working principle and classification of torches, and combs the development process of numerical simulation methods. The main research content of numerical simulation is summarized. Finally, the research background of plasma melting treatment technology of radioactive waste is summarized and prospected.