AbstractNon-transferred dc arc plasma generators are widely used in materials processing. They are generally considered steadily-operating devises. However, unsteady phenomena do exist in them, and may cause non-ideal effects in processes which require high controllability and reproducibility. These unsteady phenomena can cause parameter fluctuations in the arc and the plasma jet, some of which have been studied in recent years. Several types and mechanisms of these phenomena have been identified. This paper reviews the research progress in this specific area, hoping to present a more complete picture of this subject.