Rusting of Satellite Dishes

Properly coated ( ie galvanised and powder coated ) steel does not rust.

... Phil

Galvanised steel, I would suggest.

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If you can wire-brush the loose rust, an application of 'cold galvanize' paint (commonly used for wire fences) will usually work. Keep it all clear of the aperture of the receiver, though, JUST paint the metal dish.

Rust never sleeps.

Satellite dishes need to be accurate to about 1/10th wavelength difference from a perfect parabola in order to work well. That makes them rather difficult to repair.

I used to help maintain the satellite feed antennas at a local AM/FM station located in a salt water lake. These rusting steel dishes: were eventually replaced by these fiberglass equivalents: Unfortunately, we had to later move one of the steel dishes: The dish should have fallen apart from all the rust, but 2 years later, is still functional and in one piece.

The main advantages of fiberglass are somewhat easier to assemble, no rust, no paint required, less reflected heat, and easier to clean. However, the support structure and hardware are usually steel, and will need to be protected from corrosion.

If you want details and particulars, my email address in the signature works.