Elongation of Rod (2) Accounting for Clearance  
scene 6 of 8
The figure shows a horizontal bar A B C supported by steel rods of height 900 millimeters at A and C and by a steel rod of height 1500 millimeters at B. A load P directed vertically downwards acts at B. The rods extend downward by 1.8 millimeters.

How would a 0.5 mm clearance in the connection between rods (2) and the rigid bar affect the strain produced in rods (2)?

The clearances at points A and C will not affect the deflection of the rigid bar.

Consequently, the deflection of joints A and C would still be 1.8 mm.