Abstract: Arc grounding fault is very common in distribution network, which is not easy to be found and has great harm. Its mechanism is complex and random. In view of the above problems, we elaborated the causes and hazards of arc grounding faults in distribution network, mathematical models of arc grounding fault, suppression strategy of arc grounding fault, identification, location and protection of arc grounding faults, and physical simulation experiments and simulation tests of arc grounding fault. Moreover, we summarized and analyzed the research status at home and abroad, and prospected the research direction of arc grounding faults in distribution networks. The research framework of arc grounding faults in distribution networks is proposed from following four aspects: fault model research and digital simulation software development, suppression strategy research and device development, fault identification and protection strategy, and physical simulation and digital analog hybrid simulation test technology.