Chrome Plating on Magnesium. APC offers satin chrome, black chrome, and bright chrome plating on magnesium substrates. Why magnesium? Because it is 2/3 the weight of aluminum and can be formed with very thin walls. Magnesium also has a metallic feel to the surface. Pictured here is a dip stick cap for a Harley-Davidson motorcycle and a paddle shifter for a Cadillac ATS. Interior and exterior plating applications.