In this paper

the non-traditional laser beam of selective laser melting (SLM) is taken as the object of investigation

the principle of non-traditional laser beam shaping and its SLM equipment are introduced

the elliptical Gaussian laser beam

flat-top laser beam

inverse Gaussian laser beam and micro Gaussian laser beam are classified. Besides

the effects of different laser shape types on the thermal history

microstructure and defects of the products during SLM process are summarized. The study of integrated beam shaping devices and non-traditional laser beam SLM printing reveals that elliptical Gaussian laser beam printing allows for convenient microstructure control and improved equiaxed crystal ratios because of the change of beam ellipticity

which gives the product different heat profiles in different parts. Flat-top laser beam

because of uniform energy distribution

enables the particles melted in conduction mode

which can effectively suppress the generation of cracks and spatters and obtain products with sound surface. Inverse Gaussian laser beam

because of the wide process window

is suitable for production at high scan speeds and high laser power

which can maximize the productivity of SLM. Micro Gaussian laser beam can refine the grain and improve the accuracy of the product because of the large temperature gradient and fine beam diameter during SLM. Finally

this paper provides an outlook on the future development of non-traditional laser beams’ SLM based on the aforementioned analysis and discussion.