A method of forming a composite article (22) comprises the steps of providing a tool (26) having a mold surface (24), providing a preform (62), and disposing the preform (62) on the mold surface (24). The method further comprises the steps of heating the mold surface (24) within a first period of time (Tt1), applying pressure to the preform (62) within a first period of time, and maintaining temperature of the mold surface (24) for a second period of time (Tt2). The method further comprises the steps of maintaining pressure for a second period of time, reducing pressure on the composite article (22), cooling the mold surface (24) within a third period of time (Tt3), and removing the composite article (22) from the mold surface (24). The total of Tt1+Tt2+Tt3 is generally no greater than about 30 minutes. A thermal system (20) comprising a heater-subsystem, and optionally, a chiller-subsystem, can be used to heat and cool the mold surface (24).