Oops! Didn't put a smile in there did I! Reading back it does sound harsh!
(That's the smile that should have been in that post - I ain't a monster!)
From how we prectice, we would never "batter" someone. We will apply the technique as hard as someone can take it though (and maybe a touch more to stretch them).
The breaking bones and knocking unconcious does happen though, and is known for some Shihan to require more than one Uke to complete a demonstration!