Shockloading is the transient application of loads significantly beyond design load. The belt teeth in contact with the sprocket at the time of the shock load will usually show root radius damage with possible tooth shear. The broken tensile member will exhibit a ragged, uneven appearance across the break. The remainder of the belt may appear in new condition.

The introduction of debris between the sprocket and belt effectively increases the center distance beyond the design limit of the belt resulting in rupture of the tensile members.